Dr. Zach Farris, associate professor in App State’s Department of Kinesiology, recently published research in Science Advances on the daily activity patterns of wild mammals. The global study involved four lead researchers collaborating with more than 200 scientists across 38 countries, analyzing camera trap data to better understand when mammals are active in their natural habitats.

The adventure magazine features App State alumna Laura Boggess ’13, a climber-scientist who explores “vertical grasslands” to discover unique plant communities with the potential to boost ecological health in the Southeast. Boggess has studied cliff science since her time as a graduate student at App State, where she earned her master’s degree in biology in 2013.

In this episode of PBS North Carolina’s “Focus On” series, App State Chancellor Heather Norris discusses the university’s recent growth, highlights and challenges. She reflects on guiding the university through the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Helene, the impact of research, the rise of AI and more.

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce announced App State as the recipient of its 2025 Large Business of the Year award, recognizing a milestone year that included the appointment and installation of Chancellor Heather Norris, the university’s designation as a Research 2 institution and its continued contributions to the local economy.

In this Q&A, Erik Martella, a wine specialist and lecturer in App State’s Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences, discusses the Wine and Fine Dining for Emerging Professionals Program — a two-day immersive initiative he created at the university. Martella reflects on what motivated the program, what today’s students are seeking from wine experiences, and how innovation in education and American viticulture can help shape a more engaged wine culture for the next generation.

The North Carolina magazine features App State alumna Julia Castellano ’15, owner of Little Loaf Bakery & Schoolhouse in Wilmington, where she blends baking and teaching through classes and collaborations with local makers. Castellano studied French and teaching English as a second language at App State and discovered her passion for baking while teaching English in a small Argentinian village.

Dr. Hannah Holmes, clinical assistant professor in App State’s Department of Psychology, breaks down the anatomy, function and impact of the vagus nerve. She explores how vagal pathways support heart rate, digestion and emotional regulation, why the vagus nerve is central to stress recovery and overall well-being, and the bidirectional signals that link physical states and psychological experience.

In this video feature, App State’s Kidd Brewer Stadium is spotlighted as one of the best small college football stadiums in the nation. Former Mountaineer players and alumni Larry Hand ’64 and Tommy Sofield ’76 share what makes App State a special place to play — and how the campus and Boone community elevate the football experience.

App State’s student-run newspaper looks back at the emergency efforts that helped keep the campus and community safe during Hurricane Helene, and explores plans to expand communication channels for future disasters. The article features App State alumnus Tom Beam ’89, disaster relief coordinator for Baptists on Mission; alumnus David Jackson ’00, CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce; Jason Marshburn, director of Environmental Health, Safety and Emergency Management; and Megan Hayes, director of chancellor communications.