Dr. Jill Juris, professor and chair of App State’s Department of Recreation Management and Physical Education, shares insights from BRIDGE2Health, an intergenerational mentoring program linking high school students with older adults. Early data show it boosts social connections and life skills, benefiting participants of all ages.

The nursing organization named App State’s RN to BSN program the No. 1 online RN to BSN program in the country for 2026, citing its affordability and positive online learning experience. The program is also highlighted for the flexibility of its one- to three-year formats, designed to accommodate students with varying weekly time commitments.

The Watauga Democrat looks ahead to App State in 2026, highlighting upcoming university construction projects and new academic programs both online and in Hickory. Chancellor Heather Norris also points to the university’s continued high retention and graduation rates, minimal student debt, positive returns on investment across academic programs and its role in meeting regional workforce needs.

The Charlotte TV station interviews Dr. Zach Russell, assistant professor in App State’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, about his AI-powered microscope that helps farmers diagnose parasites faster. Russell explains how his research is moving from the lab into the real world, supported by a $2.3 million NCInnovation grant.

Dr. Hannah Holmes, clinical assistant professor in App State’s Department of Psychology, shares 11 tips for overcoming gym anxiety — the fear, worry and self-consciousness some people experience when exercising at the gym. She notes that strategies such as working out with a friend, taking a class or partnering with a personal trainer can help boost confidence.

Several scholars of rural higher education — including Dr. Andrew Koricich, a professor in App State’s Department of Counseling, Family Therapy and Higher Education — discuss the challenges students face in rural areas. Koricich, executive director of the Alliance for Research on Regional Colleges, has extensively researched rural colleges and student experiences.

Dr. Shea Tuberty, professor in App State’s Department of Biology, discusses his study revealing toxic contaminants from debris and runoff in the French Broad River after Hurricane Helene. Tuberty and his colleagues collected water samples to assess the danger and inform solutions ahead of future disasters.

The Athletic has named App State’s Kidd Brewer Stadium one of the top 25 college football stadiums in the nation. Writer Chris Vannini called it an “intimate and beautiful setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where a deep forest begins in one end zone, an incredible sight in the fall.” He also noted that App State has sold out season tickets for four straight years and regularly fills the stands for midweek games.

Dr. Heather Norris was formally installed as App State’s eighth chancellor during a ceremony at the Holmes Convocation Center, where speakers highlighted her steady leadership during Hurricane Helene and her long record of service to the university. UNC System President Peter Hans presided over the installation and delivered the charge of office, with additional remarks from App State staff, alumni and members of the UNC System Board of Governors.