Using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, a team of astronomers observed a centaur that led to the discovery of new, previously unknown jets of gas, which is helping inform theories about how centaurs and planets are formed. Dr. Adam McKay, assistant professor in App State’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and co-author of the study, explains how looking at these jets over time can improve the understanding and evolution of our solar system.

App State alumnus Jesse Barber ’22 ’24, a documentary photographer and Western North Carolina native, brought a unique perspective to his photo coverage of Hurricane Helene, with an aim to capture hope amidst the devastation of his home state. Barber graduated from App State with a bachelor’s degree in documentary studies and a master’s degree in Appalachian studies.

This summer, App State students visited countries across five continents on faculty-led study abroad programs. The Appalachian shares the experiences of several students who participated in study abroad trips to countries in South America and to Spain.

App State alumnus Dylan Reed '24, who graduated last spring with a degree in construction management, speaks with App State’s student newspaper about how his intern experience with New Atlantic Contracting led to a job as an on-site project engineer. Reed was an intern for the company during the construction of App State’s Holmes Drive Parking Deck.

On Friday, Aug. 30, what is believed to be a meteor could be seen shooting across the night skies of the High Country. Several witnesses shared photos and videos of the event with WSOC-TV. Dr. Daniel Caton, a professor in App State’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, spoke with the station about the event.

Dr. Dinesh Davè, director and professor of supply chain management at App State, and Evan Junker, chief growth officer at SPARQ360, dive into the findings from the 2024 Supply Chain Trends and Attitudes Report, revealing how companies are prioritizing investments in AI, predictive analytics and supply chain visibility platforms to stay ahead.

WBIR-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee celebrates Eric Foxx on his 35th anniversary with the station. Foxx is an App State alumnus who graduated with a degree in communications in 1985. He was a running back for the App State Mountaineer football team from 1981 to 1984.

After an 11-year hiatus, EA Sports brought back an acclaimed video game series with the July 19 release of NCAA Football 25. App State was one of 15 Football Bowl Subdivision programs to be featured in a trailer for the game on May 17. Mountaineer head coach Shawn Clark and players speak about the excitement of being featured in the game and how it will provide great exposure for the football program.

Joe Bigley ’04, lecturer in the Department of Art at App State, is executive director of the Western NC Sculpture Center, located in the Happy Valley community of Caldwell County. The center recently collaborated with Hudson Elementary School art teacher and App State art education alumna Emilee Aldaco ’14 on a cast iron project designed by a fourth grade class.