BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University’s black and gold pride was on full display during its Spring 2021 Commencement. For the first time since December 2019, App State held an in-person commencement, hosting 13 in-person ceremonies May 7–12.
As part of the commencement celebrations, Chancellor Sheri Everts conferred degrees in person and through a prerecorded virtual conferral to more than 3,600 Mountaineer graduates, including 3,209 undergraduate and 480 graduate students. Recordings of the ceremonies, as well as the virtual degree conferral, are available on App State’s commencement website. See below for photo galleries displaying memorable commencement moments.
Appalachian State University Chancellor Sheri Everts makes her way to the commencement stage in Holmes Convocation Center during App State’s Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. Photo by Marie Freeman
Everts presided over the ceremonies and Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Heather Hulburt Norris presented the candidates for graduation. C. Philip Byers ’85, a member of the University of North Carolina System Board of Governors, and App State Board of Trustees Chair Scott Lampe ’94 shared remarks.
In her address to App State’s Class of 2021, Everts said, “I congratulate each of you on your achievements and celebrate the hope and possibilities you take forward into our future world — a world which holds more promise because of the contributions you have made thus far, and one which you will continue to make brighter.”
She continued, “You have earned one of the most significant achievements of your lifetime under historically challenging circumstances. And yet — through the uncertainties and across distance — you overcame incredible difficulties with grace and unwavering resilience. … We are so very proud of each and every one of you.”
Everts acknowledged the App Sate families, faculty and staff who have supported, mentored, advised and/or worked alongside graduates throughout their Appalachian Experience.
Experience the sights and sounds of Appalachian State University's in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies.
Byers, who brought greetings from the UNC Board of Governors and the UNC System Office, advised App State’s graduates to “take heed of your callings and remember the invaluable education you have received from Appalachian State University.”
“Your education at Appalachian State University has provided you well with the knowledge and skills you will need to achieve the goals and dreams you set forth,” he continued. “We all join you in your well-deserved celebration!”
On behalf of the university’s Board of Trustees, Lampe expressed the board’s pride in App State’s Class of 2021 graduates and their accomplishments.
“As you begin a new phase in your lives, we are confident that you are prepared for the future, no matter what it holds for you. We extend to you our sincerest congratulations and our very best wishes for continued success,” he said.
C. Philip Byers ’85, a member of the UNC System Board of Governors, addresses Appalachian State University’s Class of 2021 graduates at the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 1 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Scott Lampe ’94, chair of Appalachian State University’s Board of Trustees, speaks at the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 1 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris, provost and executive vice chancellor at Appalachian State University, applauds App State’s Class of 2021 graduates during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 1 p.m. in Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s campus. Photo by Marie Freeman
Provost Norris, who opened the ceremonies by welcoming graduates and their guests, recognized the university’s student veteran and military-affiliated graduates for their commitment to both their university studies and their service to the country.
In her virtual commencement remarks, Norris recognized the families and friends who helped App State’s Class of 2021 reach this milestone, noting these graduates are now among the more than 135,000 App State alumni who are making a difference in North Carolina and beyond.
“As you go forth into the next chapters of your lives, we hope you will stay connected with your alma mater,” Norris said. “Know that you always have a home here at App State.”
During the physically distanced ceremonies, graduates walked across the commencement stage, had their names announced — along with the Latin and/or departmental honors they received, and were professionally photographed receiving their diploma covers. The ceremonies included graduates from each of the university’s academic colleges.
App State’s commencement ceremonies concluded with a special performance of the university’s alma mater, prerecorded by Grammy-nominated country music star and former App State student Luke Combs.
The celebration continued as graduates left the arena and walked through Holmes Center’s Alumni Hall. Amidst clapping and cheering — and with the App State fight song playing in the background — each graduate was given a sharpie to sign the Class of 2021 banner. Families and professional photographers gathered to capture the graduates’ enthusiasm and elation. App State’s Alumni Association was responsible for organizing what one bystander described as “one huge party,” and provided giveaways in the alumni tent outside Holmes Center.
Recognizing teaching excellence
During the May 7 commencement ceremony held at 5 p.m., Byers was joined by Chancellor Everts in honoring Dr. Caroline Smith — App State’s winner of the 2021 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award. Established in 1994 to encourage, identify, recognize, reward and support great teaching, the Excellence in Teaching Awards are given annually to a faculty member from each UNC campus.
Appalachian State University Chancellor Sheri Everts, left, and UNC System Board of Governors member C. Philip Byers ’85, right, with Dr. Caroline Smith — App State’s winner of the 2021 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award. Smith, who is pictured holding the medallion she received as part of her award, is an associate professor in App State’s Department of Health and Exercise Science and the director of the university’s Thermal and Microvascular Physiology Laboratory. Byers and Everts presented her with the award at the evening Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Smith, who received a medallion and cash prize as part of her award, is an associate professor in App State’s Department of Health and Exercise Science and serves as director of the university’s Thermal and Microvascular Physiology Laboratory.
Addressing Smith, Byers said, “You exemplify the heart and soul of Appalachian State University, and today, we thank you and your counterparts across the UNC System for your dedication to all of North Carolina’s students.”
The Appalachian State University Community — including the leadership, faculty, staff and students pictured — rallied to make the university’s Spring 2021 Commencement a memorable experience for App State Class of 2021 graduates and their guests. The 13 in-person commencement ceremonies hosted by App State May 7–12 were the first held on campus since December 2019. Pictured alongside Chancellor Sheri Everts (center) on the commencement stage are members of her App State leadership team, as well as faculty, staff and Student Ambassadors. Recent App State graduates and Holmes Convocation Center student workers pictured in the front row are, from left to right, Pitts Powell '21, of Fernandina Beach, Florida; Andy Currie '21, of Clemmons; Maggie Patterson '21, of Broadway; and Taylor Bair '21, of Greensboro. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University Chancellor Sheri Everts, third from right, and other members of the Spring 2021 Commencement platform party — including Jane Barghothi ’96, vice chancellor for university advancement, far right; Hank Foreman ’95, vice chancellor and chief of staff, second from right; and J.J. Brown, vice chancellor for student affairs, far left — are pictured near the Holmes Convocation Center with members of the Appalachian Police Department, who volunteered to help direct commencement parking. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University Chancellor Sheri Everts, center, is pictured with App State staff members who served as traffic officers during the university's Spring 2021 Commencement. Also pictured are Margaret McCoy, executive director of donor engagement and university events, far left; J.J. Brown, vice chancellor for student affairs, second from left; Jane Barghothi ’96, vice chancellor for university advancement, second from right; and Hank Foreman ’95, vice chancellor and chief of staff, far right. Photo by Marie Freeman
Pictured at the alumni tent located outside Appalachian State University's Holmes Convocation Center during Spring 2021 Commencement are App State Chancellor Sheri Everts, members of her App State leadership team, Class of 2021 graduates, Alumni Association staff, Student Ambassadors and student volunteers. Photo by Marie Freeman
Photo galleries
Explore this photo gallery to view memorable moments captured during App State’s in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies.
Appalachian State University recognized more than 3,600 Mountaineer graduates during its Spring 2021 Commencement, presenting virtual and in-person commencement options to allow for the greatest possible participation and maximize health and safety of all participants. Attendance at the ceremonies was limited to graduates and their ticketed guests, and face coverings, which were supplied to graduates, were required. Holmes Center staff sanitized the arena between each ceremony. Pictured is the third in-person commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 5 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University Chancellor Sheri Everts addresses Class of 2021 graduates in person during App State’s Spring 2021 Commencement. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Pictured is Appalachian Police Department Capt. Johnny Brown, who carried the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 9 a.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. He represented APD and the service of all law enforcement and first responders. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Appalachian State University graduate Josue Villegas-Silva ’21, of Mount Airy, participates in the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 9 a.m. in Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s campus. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Appalachian State University’s J.J. Brown, vice chancellor for student affairs, center in foreground, hands a diploma cover to a Class of 2021 graduate during the university’s second Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony, held Friday, May 7, at 1 p.m. in Holmes Convocation Center. App State Student Ambassador Nathaniel Eure, a sophomore communication studies major from Morganton, pictured far left, assists Brown in handing out diploma covers. Photo by Marie Freeman
An Appalachian State University graduate accepts her diploma cover from Jane Barghothi ’96, vice chancellor for university advancement, during App State’s Spring 2021 Commencement. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Beth Fiske, associate professor and director of graduate programs in the Beaver College of Health Sciences’ Department of Nursing, carries the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 1 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
An Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate and her parents are pictured outside the university’s Holmes Convocation Center Friday, May 7. Photo by Marie Freeman
Watauga Democrat reporter Moss Brennan ’21, of Durham, graduated from Appalachian State University with a B.S. in communication, journalism on Friday, May 7. While a student at App State, Brennan served as opinion writer, news editor and then editor-in-chief for App State’s student newspaper, The Appalachian. Photo by Marie Freeman
Class of 2021 graduate Connor Beatty ’21, of Charlotte, earned his B.S. in communication, electronic media/broadcasting from Appalachian State University Friday, May 7. He is pictured in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center during Spring 2021 Commencement. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Appalachian State University’s Dr. Mark Bradbury, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of public administration, center, is shown carrying the university banner during one of App State’s 13 in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies, held May 7–12 in Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s campus. Bradbury also served as one of two faculty who read the names of graduates during App State's commencement ceremonies. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Micah Gray, a graduate of Appalachian State University’s Students with Diverse Abilities Program (SDAP) from Winston-Salem, lowers his face covering for a quick photo and an opportunity to flash his smile during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. SDAP is designed to provide students with intellectual disabilities access to an inclusive college educational experience that encompasses academic, social, personal and career development. It is jointly supported by App State’s Reich College of Education and University College. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University graduates participating in the university’s 11th Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony — held Tuesday, May 11, at 1 p.m. — stand as the university banner is carried into the Holmes Convocation Center by App State’s Dr. Mark Bradbury, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of public administration. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Robin Byerly, professor in the Walker College of Business’ Department of Management, carries the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
An Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate receives two quick kisses — one on her cheek and one on her forehead — from her parents post-commencement. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University graduate Cori Mendelow ’21, center, accepts her diploma cover from J.J. Brown, vice chancellor for student affairs, during App State’s second in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony, held Friday, May 7, at 1 p.m. in Holmes Convocation Center. Mendelow, of Charlotte, was accompanied on the commencement stage by her service dog Naja, who also sported a mortarboard for the occasion. Mendelow earned her B.S. in special education. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Noah Hannon ’21, of Greer, graduated from Appalachian State University Friday, May 7, with a B.S. in exercise science. During his time at App State, Hannon played as an offensive lineman for the Mountaineers football team. He is pictured with his face covering temporarily removed to have his photo taken as he crosses the commencement stage. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Summer Pankey ’21, an Appalachian State University graduate, is pictured wearing her “App State 2021 Graduate” face covering during the university’s first in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony, held Friday, May 7, at 9 a.m. in Holmes Convocation Center. Pankey, of Gastonia, earned her B.S. in interior design through App State’s College of Fine and Applied Arts. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Class of 2021 graduates make their way down Alumni Hall in Appalachian State University’s Holmes Convocation Center post-commencement. Amidst clapping and cheering — and with the App State fight song playing in the background — each graduate was given a sharpie to sign the Class of 2021 banner. Families and professional photographers were also there to capture the graduates’ enthusiasm and elation. The hall was organized by App State’s Alumni Association. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Three Mountaineer graduates sign the Class of 2021 banner in Alumni Hall in Appalachian State University’s Holmes Convocation Center. Alumni Hall, organized by App State’s Alumni Association, gave graduates the opportunity to sign the banner and be photographed before visiting the alumni tent located outside the Holmes Center, which featured giveaways. Alumni Association staff also shared ways graduates can stay connected to their alma mater. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Rodney Duke, professor in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Philosophy and Religion. Duke carried the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 7, at 5 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Two Class of 2021 graduates of Appalachian State University show off their diploma covers outside Holmes Convocation Center after taking part in the App State Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. Photo by Marie Freeman
Pictured in front of the Appalachian State University sign in Founders Plaza, a Class of 2021 graduate wears her regalia atop black and gold overalls. Photo by Marie Freeman
Pictured outside Appalachian State University’s Holmes Convocation Center, a Class of 2021 graduate shares a moment of joy with his young daughter after the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Tuesday, May 11, at 9 a.m. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Dr. Jeff Vahlbusch, dean of Appalachian State University’s Honors College, carries the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
The most recent Class of 2021 Appalachian State University graduates exit Holmes Convocation Center following an in-person ceremony held Tuesday, May 11 — one of 13 in-person commencement ceremonies conducted by App State May 7–12 at the Holmes Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
This Appalachian State University graduate and her parents are pictured with App State Chancellor Sheri Everts, far left, outside the university’s Holmes Convocation Center post-commencement. App State conducted 13 in-person commencement ceremonies May 7–12 to honor its spring and summer 2021 graduates. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Sandra Vannoy, acting dean of the Walker College of Business, carries the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Tuesday, May 11, at 9 a.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Embraces and cheers were the order of the day Tuesday, May 11, on Appalachian State University’s campus following one of the 13 in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies conducted by App State May 7–12 at Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Selfies captured smiles on Appalachian State University’s campus following one of the 13 in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies conducted by App State May 7–12 at Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University Chancellor Sheri Everts, center, celebrates with a Class of 2021 graduate and her family outside the university’s Holmes Convocation Center. App State conducted 13 in-person commencement ceremonies May 7–12 to honor its spring and summer 2021 graduates. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University Student Ambassadors, student volunteers and Alumni Association staff raise their arms to form a congratulatory lane for graduates following one of the 13 in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies conducted by App State May 7–12 at Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Barbara Howard, professor and graduate program director in the Reich College of Education’s Department of Leadership and Educational Studies, served as the university mace bearer for all three Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies held Monday, May 10, in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Two recent graduates make fist pumps as they display their recently presented diploma covers following one of the Tuesday, May 11, Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies at Appalachian State University. The university conducted 13 in-person ceremonies May 7–12 at Holmes Convocation Center to honor spring and summer 2021 graduates. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Marie Huff, dean of Appalachian State University’s Beaver College of Health Sciences, carries the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 1 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
Dr. Jay Jackson, associate dean of the Hayes School of Music, is pictured carrying the university banner during one of App State’s 13 in-person Spring 2021 Commencement ceremonies, held May 7–12 in Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s Campus. Jackson also served as one of two App State faculty who read the names of graduates during the commencement ceremonies. Photo by Marie Freeman
Paul Orkiszewski, interim dean of University Libraries at Appalachian State University, carries the university mace during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Tuesday, May 11, at 5 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Marie Freeman
During App State’s Spring 2021 Commencement, Mountaineers near and far — including graduates and their loved ones, alumni and App State faculty and staff — put their black and gold pride on display over social media, sharing congratulatory messages, well wishes and commencement photos in celebration of the #AppStateClassof2021. This gallery highlights some of the Appalachian Community's social media shares. More photos are available on App State’s commencement website.
Pictured in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Julia Eanes ’21, of Trinity, is a Class of 2021 graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Fine and Applied Arts at Appalachian State University. Eanes, who graduated cum laude, earned a B.A. in anthropology with a minor in social practice and sustainability and a B.A. in sustainable development with a concentration in environmental studies from App State in May. Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Kevin Delgado-Valentin ’21, of Fleetwood, and his wife, Morgan Roberson Delgado ’15, an App State alumna, are pictured in front of the Reich College of Education building on App State’s campus. Delgado-Valentin, who serves as a full-time senior associate registrar at App State, earned his master’s degree in higher education from App State in May. “I am grateful for the opportunity to further my education in a field I love,” Delgado-Valentin wrote in an Instagram post shared on the university’s commencement website. Photo submitted
This group of Transfer Student Mentors and Class of 2021 graduates are pictured leaping for joy on Appalachian State University’s campus. Photo submitted
Student Veteran Services at Appalachian State University honored student veteran and military-affiliated graduates with an honor cord ceremony, held Friday, May 3, in App State’s Plemmons Student Union. Each graduate received a red, white and blue honor cord, as well as an App State swag bag. Pictured is App State graduate Mary Junell ’21, of Raleigh, who participated in the ceremony. Junell earned her B.S. in communication, advertising from App State in May. Photo submitted
Adrian Anderson ’21, of Sumter, South Carolina, graduated from Appalachian State University in May, earning his M.A. in higher education with a concentration in community college and university leadership. Photo submitted
Nick Medlock ’21, of Hickory, left, graduated from Appalachian State University in May with a B.S. in exercise science. Wearing his black and gold regalia, he is pictured with his significant other, Abigail Dowell. Photo submitted
Abby Reeves ’21, of Traphill, graduated from Appalachian State University in May with a B.S. in communication sciences and disorders. Reeves — pictured in the stands of App State’s Kidd Brewer Stadium — plans to continue her education at App State by pursuing the university’s M.S. in speech-language pathology program. Photo submitted
Monique Geter ’21, of Charlotte, graduated from Appalachian State University Friday, May 7, earning her B.A. in global studies and minors in Chinese and human resource management. Photo submitted
Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate Austin Booker ’21, of Reidsville, second from right, graduated from App State in May with two BSBA degrees — one in risk management and insurance and one in finance and banking. He is pictured celebrating with his family. Photo submitted
Adriana “Audi” Mendoza ’21, of Hendersonville, who is pictured on Appalachian State University's Kidd Brewer Stadium field, graduated from App State in May with an M.S. in athletic training. Her plans after graduation? Attend Indiana State University for a doctorate in athletic training while working at a local high school as a graduate assistant. Photo submitted
Class of 2021 graduate Tevin Cheek ’21, of Burlington, is pictured in front of the Appalachian State University sign in Founders Plaza on App State’s campus. “Graphic Design is my passion ... for life now,” Cheek wrote in an Instagram post shared on App Sate’s commencement website. “I’m thankful for the last four years of my life and can’t wait to see where it takes me from here.” Cheek graduated with a BFA in graphic design from App State in May. Photo submitted
Josh Sweeny ’21, of Winston-Salem, earned his B.S. in finance and banking from Appalachian State University in May. In an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, Sweeny wrote, “Wow, where has the time gone? It feels like yesterday that I was first getting dropped off at my dorm room (in) East Hall and learning what it was like to be a Mountaineer. These have been some of the best years of my life so far, and I’ve made so many memories that will stick with me for life.” He is pictured on App State’s campus, wearing his regalia and with his mom by his side. Photo submitted
Toria Davenport ’21, of Winston-Salem, who is pictured in front of Smith-Wright Hall at Appalachian State University, graduated from App State in May, earning a B.S. in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in statistics. “During my time at App, I was able to form meaningful relationships with professors and to guide my own research study in psychology,” Davenport wrote in an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website. She will continue her education at App State next fall, when she will begin her pursuit of a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. Photo submitted
Sisters Emily Sharpe ’21, left, and Moriah Sharpe, both of Matthews, hug in celebration of their respective graduations. Emily Sharpe graduated from Appalachian State University in May, earning her B.S. in elementary education. Moriah Sharpe is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Photo submitted
Riley Graeff ’21, of Albemarle, who is pictured on Appalachian State University’s campus, graduated from App State in May, earning her B.S. in commercial photography. “It’s been a memorable four years,” she wrote in an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website. “I have learned so much from the best professors, found a career I want to pursue and made friendships that will last a lifetime!” Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Logan Philips ’21, of Granite Falls, is pictured in one of the tunnels on App State’s campus, holding an App State flag that depicts university mascot Yosef. “What a journey it has been. Looking forward to my future endeavors and what God has planned for me,” Phillips wrote in an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website. He earned his B.S. in computer information systems from App State in May and has been accepted into graduate school to study cybersecurity. Photo submitted
Kamryn Harris ’21, of Mocksville, graduated from Appalachian State University in May with a B.S. in history, social studies education. In an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, Harris wrote, “Thank you to the History department, RCOE (Reich College of Education), my friends, my family, my dad, my boyfriend and most importantly my mom, watching me from heaven, for helping me get this far!” Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Samuel Duarte ’21, of Black Mountain, earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing through App State’s Walker College of Business in May. Photo submitted
Allison Basili ’21, an Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate from Winterville, earned her B.S. in physics-applied physics from App State in May. In this Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, Basili is pictured holding a graduation cake with decorations that include an App State block A, textbooks and a laptop that displays “E = mc2.” Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Mary Ellen Lewis ’21, of Mocksville, is pictured in front of the women’s clothing store in downtown Boone where she has worked during her time at App State. Lewis earned her B.S. in communication, public relations from App State in May and will participate in the Raleigh Fellows Program — a Christian leadership development and training program for recent college graduates. Photo submitted
A Class of 2021 graduate of Appalachian State University displays his diploma cover. He is pictured in front of the Holmes Convocation Center sign on App State’s campus. Photo submitted
Jacob Leonhardt ’21, of Connelly Springs, graduated from Appalachian State University in May with a B.A. in art and visual culture. In an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, he wrote, “Finito. Wouldn’t have made it here without the love and support of my family. ... My heart feels full for now.” Photo submitted
Samantha Hopkins ’21, of Summerfield, who is pictured in front of the Appalachian State University sign in Founders Plaza, graduated from App State in May with her B.S. in special education. In an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, she wrote, “It hasn’t hit me yet, but I am proud to say that yesterday I graduated from App State! Thank you to everyone that has supported me and believed in me on this journey. One degree down, one to go.” Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Shanelle Meyer ’21, of Greenville, left, graduated from App State in May, earning her B.A. in English with a concentration in creative writing. She is pictured with her sister. Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Lakelyn B. Newton ’21, of Pender County, who earned her B.S. in criminal justice in May, is pictured in front of the bronze Yosef statue on App State’s campus. Photo by Shawn Mitchell
Amber Murphy ’21, a May graduate of Appalachian State University’s B.S. in child development degree program, is pictured holding her daughter. In an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, the Reich College of Education graduate wrote, “My baby girl has been the best cheerleader through all of this!” Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Allyson Finley ’21, of Concord, left, celebrates with her father outside App State’s Holmes Convocation Center following one of 13 in-person commencement ceremonies held by App State May 7–12. Photo submitted
Appalachian State University graduate Anya Laws ’21, of Sugar Grove, graduated from App State in May, earning her BSBA in finance and banking. She is pictured celebrating with her sister, Maya Laws. Photo submitted
Sarah Garrett ’21, of Charlotte, is a Class of 2021 graduate of Appalachian State University. In an Instagram post shared on App State’s commencement website, she wrote, “Thanks for a great three years, App State. I’m so proud of myself for getting here. I said I’d never go to college, and now I can’t imagine what my life would be like without the past few years in sweet Boonetown. Roll ’Neers forever.” Garrett earned her B.S. in child development from App State in May. Photo submitted
During this year’s commencement, Mountaineer moms had twice the reasons to celebrate — not only were their graduates recognized, but Mother’s Day, May 9, fell in the middle of App State’s commencement ceremonies. Take a look at some of the proud Mountaineer moms who are pictured with their Class of 2021 graduates — as well as moms who graduated from App State.
Lexi Snoke, of Charlotte, who graduated from Appalachian State University Saturday, May 8, with a B.S. in communication, public relations, right, and her mom flash their Mountaineer smiles outside Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Chase Reynolds
An Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate — and Mountaineer mom — celebrates with her two sons and husband outside App State’s Holmes Convocation Center on Tuesday, May 11. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University graduate Michael Goldfarb ’21, of Fletcher, left, with his mom outside the Holmes Convocation Center during Spring 2021 Commencement on App State’s campus. Goldfarb earned a B.S. in accounting through App State’s Walker College of Business. Photo by Chase Reynolds
An Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate with her mom outside the Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s campus. Photo by Chase Reynolds
A Class of 2021 graduate of Appalachian State University shares a moment with his mom outside the Holmes Convocation Center during Spring 2021 Commencement on App State’s campus. Photo by Chase Reynolds
A Class of 2021 graduate of Appalachian State University hugs her mom post-commencement outside App State’s Holmes Convocation Center on Friday, May 7. Photo by Marie Freeman
Post-commencement, an Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate displays his diploma cover with his mom by his side. The pair are pictured outside App State’s Holmes Convocation Center on Saturday, May 8. Photo by Chase Reynolds
A Mountaineer mom and Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate is pictured with her young son following the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 5 p.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Chase Reynolds
This Mountaineer mom and Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate, shown at right, is all smiles as she celebrates with her husband and infant after the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Tuesday, May 11, at 9 a.m. in App State’s Holmes Convocation Center. Photo by Chase Reynolds
As part of Spring 2021 Commencement, App State’s academic colleges held in-person and virtual hooding ceremonies for graduate students. These hoods, worn over the back of the gown, feature colors that represent both the university and the graduates’ disciplines.
App State’s Department of Military Science and Leadership also held a special ceremony for graduates of its Army ROTC program, commissioning 10 new officers as U.S. Army second lieutenants. App State has now commissioned 978 Army officers over the past 50 years. Army Col. Alric Francis ’95, App State alumnus and commander of the 3rd Infantry Division Artillery, served as the event’s guest speaker.
View this photo gallery for a glimpse into the ceremonies.
Ten graduates of Appalachian State University’s master’s degree program in student affairs administration received their graduate hoods during an in-person ceremony held Friday, May 7, in the Plemmons Student Union on App State’s campus. Photo submitted
Class of 2021 graduates of Appalachian State University’s dual M.A. and specialist degree program in school psychology received their graduate hoods during an in-person ceremony held Friday, May 7, in Smith-Wright Hall on App State’s campus. The graduates are pictured with program faculty. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Newly hooded Master of Health Administration graduates and program faculty are pictured in Appalachian State University’s Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences during a graduate hooding ceremony held Friday, May 7, as part of Spring 2021 Commencement. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Class of 2021 graduates and faculty of Appalachian State University’s M.S. in speech-language pathology program are pictured in App State’s Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences during a graduate hooding ceremony held Friday, May 7, as part of Spring 2021 Commencement. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Pictured are Class of 2021 graduates of Appalachian State University’s M.S. in exercise science degree program. These individuals received their graduate hoods at a ceremony held Friday, May 7, in App State’s Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Newly hooded graduates of the education specialist degree program in educational administration at Appalachian State University. The Class of 2021 graduates received their hoods during a graduate hooding ceremony held Saturday, May 8, in the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility on App State’s campus. Photo by Marie Freeman
India Simpson ’21, a graduate of Appalachian State University’s Master of Health Administration degree program, right, is pictured with Dr. Trent Spaulding, associate professor in the health administration program, after receiving her graduate hood Friday, May 7. Photo by Chase Reynolds
Appalachian State University’s spring 2021 ROTC officer commissioning ceremony took place Friday, May 7, in the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility on App State’s campus. Pictured, the newest class of U.S. Army officers take their oath — swearing to support and defend the U.S. Constitution against foreign and domestic enemies, to bear allegiance to the constitution and to faithfully discharge the duties of the office they are about to enter. Photo by Marie Freeman
U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Patricia Parks ’21, of High Point, center, will be Appalachian State University’s first female to serve as an active-duty infantry officer. Parks, who received the George C. Marshall top cadet award, is pictured with her parents during App State’s ROTC officer commissioning ceremony, held Friday, May 7, on App State’s campus. She graduated from App State in May with a B.S. in social work. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University alumnus and U.S. Army Col. Alric Francis ’95 served as the guest speaker for App State’s ROTC officer commissioning ceremony, held Friday, May 7, in the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility. Photo by Marie Freeman
The parents of Appalachian State University graduate Aaron Rigby ’21, of North Wilkesboro, center, pin his new rank insignia — U.S. Army second lieutenant — on his uniform during App State’s ROTC officer commissioning ceremony, held Friday, May 7, in the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility. Rigby graduated from App State in May with his B.S. in history, social studies education. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University graduate Seth Kimpler ’21, of Fayetteville, is pinned with his new rank insignia — U.S. Army second lieutenant — by his parents during App State’s ROTC officer commissioning ceremony, held Friday, May 7, in the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility. Kimpler, who earned a B.S. in computer science from App State, will serve as an active-duty officer in the Army’s Signal Corps. Photo by Marie Freeman
Appalachian State University graduate and U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Grayson Trogdon ’21 is pictured during the university’s ROTC officer commissioning ceremony held Friday, May 7, in the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility. Trogdon, of Raleigh, earned a B.S. in criminal justice from App State in May and will serve in the Aviation division of the National Guard. Photo submitted
App State graduates got creative when decorating their mortarboards for Spring 2021 Commencement. This gallery presents a handful of their colorful crafts.
This mortarboard’s message: “The best view comes after the hardest climb.” Photo by Marie Freeman
This Class of 2021 graduate’s mortarboard states “Proud product of immigrants” and features a cluster of faux monarch butterflies. Fun fact: Monarch butterflies travel approximately 3,000 miles each fall from northeastern U.S. and Canada to spend their winter months in Mexico, according to National Geographic. Photo by Chase Reynolds
This mortarboard belonging to a graduate of Appalachian State University’s B.S. in chemistry-forensic science degree program features the words “Forensic Chemistry” in gold, along with laboratory beakers, a DNA strand, a fingerprint and an illustration of a chemical compound. Photo by Marie Freeman
A Class of 2021 graduate of Appalachian State University’s Reich College of Education wears a mortarboard decorated with the names of students she has taught while at App State. The border of her cap features a quote by North Carolina native and educator Ron Clark, a New York Times best-selling author and the founder of Ron Clark Academy, a nonprofit middle school in Atlanta: “I teach you and you teach me (and) together we learn to love to learn.” Photo by Marie Freeman
This mortarboard of an Appalachian State University graduate features a scene from Walt Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” along with the words “On to my new dream.” Photo by Marie Freeman
This mortarboard of an Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate — decorated with cutouts of a school, a school bus, a pencil and an apple — reads “And she taught happily ever after … 2021.” Photo by Chase Reynolds
Maribel Renteria Rios ’21, of Hiddenite, right photo, graduated from Appalachian State University with a B.S. in special education on Saturday, May 8. Her mortarboard, pictured at left, is decorated with colorful puzzle pieces, pencils and an apple featuring her name and 2021, along with the words “Teaching is a work of heart.” Photos by Marie Freeman
This Appalachian State University graduate’s mortarboard has a clear message for her future: “The best is yet to come.” Photo by Marie Freeman
An Appalachian State University graduate greets another graduate in the university’s Holmes Convocation Center during the Spring 2021 Commencement ceremony held Saturday, May 8, at 1 p.m. The first graduate’s mortarboard is decorated with a world map and the words “I am the captain of my soul. Gracias familia.” Photo by Chase Reynolds
Written in colorful letters, this mortarboard message of an Appalachian State University Class of 2021 graduate states “I didn’t graduate cum laude. I graduated thank the laude.” Photo by Marie Freeman
“Hip hip hooray!” is displayed on this mortarboard belonging to a graduate of Appalachian State University’s M.S. in athletic training degree program — with a pelvis drawn above each “hip” for emphasis. Photo submitted
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About Appalachian State University
As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, affordable education for all. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.
