Features

App State’s Office of Sustainability offers programs and events to help the campus community learn ways to stay environmentally conscious year-round.

Jesse Barber, a senior from Sawmills, combines his passion for photography, the environment, people and culture in his self-designed interdisciplinary studies major, focusing on documentary studies in Appalachia.

Appalachian State University alumna and adjunct instructor Denise Presnell ’93 ’17 has made it her mission to educate and inform the High Country about trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and resiliency. In the process, she has engaged a village.

Justin Marks, a senior sustainable development major with a concentration in community, regional and global development, announced on national television he hopes to “save the world” — a plan playing out through his community engagement and service.

Alumna Marisa Sedlak ’14 ’20 has been recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association as one of the top 30 parks and recreation professionals under age 30 to watch in 2021. Learn how Sedlak’s Appalachian Experience — from mountains to mentors — helped prepare her for her role with Town of Beech Mountain’s Parks and Recreation Department.

As a child, Cashae Cook ’14 said she was always glad to see police officers arrive at her house — because it meant she and her siblings would be safe. Now, as Appalachian Police Department’s new diversity, inclusion and community engagement officer, Cook wants to make sure the Mountaineer community also experiences positive interactions with police officers.

Looking to transfer to App State? You’re in good company, and you’ll find support to help you succeed. One in four students at App State is a transfer student, whether they come from a community college, a four-year institution, the military or years spent in the workforce.

What’s your favorite rock record? Of the planet, that is. Paleontologist Dr. Andy Heckert talks about his passion for earth history and why App State is a great place to study geology.

Generations of Black Mountaineers — from innovators to motivators — continue to inspire the Appalachian Community and beyond with their hard work, vision and dedication. Read on to learn about some of App State’s most prominent and influential Black figures.