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Looking ahead to 2026: Appalachian State University
Watauga Democrat
Jan. 8, 2026
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.
Demystifying Wine for the Next Generation [faculty featured]
The Grapevine
Jan. 7, 2026
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.
NC public university research in action [faculty featured]
Spectrum News 1
Jan. 4, 2026
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.
Wilmington’s Bread Whisperer [alumni featured]
Our State
Dec. 29, 2025
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.
11 Tips for Overcoming Gym Anxiety [faculty featured]
Everyday Health
Dec. 28, 2025
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.
App State student-athletes extend 3.0 GPA streak to 27 straight semesters
Dec. 26, 2025
App State student-athletes have extended their streak of earning a cumulative GPA over 3.0 to 27 consecutive semesters — or more than 13 years. All 17 athletic programs finished the fall 2025 semester above that mark, contributing to an overall cumulative GPA of 3.30 for all student-athletes.
In 2025, App State celebrates its 8th chancellor amid record enrollment, research growth and campus advancements
Dec. 19, 2025
App State reflects on its 126th year in higher education — one marked by new leadership under Chancellor Heather Norris, as well as record enrollment, upgrades to campus infrastructure, advances in research and innovation, a continued focus on regional resilience, campus and community arts engagement, and student-athlete success.
App State awarded $1.1M NCInnovation grant for digital tool supporting families of children with developmental delays
Dec. 18, 2025
Supported by a $1.1 million NCInnovation grant, App State’s Dr. Gavin Colquitt is developing an interactive, AI-powered web-based platform designed to identify delayed development of movement skills in young children and provide support resources for these children and their families. Colquitt plans to launch the platform in Western NC, with a goal of expanding it across North Carolina and the U.S.
1,500 App State graduates begin their next chapter
Freiman and Sywassink awarded honorary doctorates for support of App State
Dec. 18, 2025
At its three Fall 2025 Commencement ceremonies, held Dec. 12, App State conferred degrees upon more than 1,500 Mountaineer graduates. University supporters Barbara Freiman and G.A. Sywassink were awarded honorary doctorates, and Dr. Charlie Chen was recognized with the Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award.
App State's inaugural Conway Scholars: 42 students shaping the future of health care
The nursing majors and scholars will help strengthen NC’s health care workforce
Dec. 12, 2025
App State has named 42 nursing students as its inaugural class of Conway Scholars. These aspiring health care providers receive scholarship support funded by a significant commitment from the Bedford Falls Foundation — one that supports the university’s Bachelor of Science in nursing program.
Dr. Erin Peters develops virtual reality and web features for the Met's popular Egyptian exhibit
The project allows App State students to explore the intersection of art, history and technology
Dec. 11, 2025
App State’s Dr. Erin Peters has helped bring new life to the layered history of the ancient Egyptian Temple of Dendur — the subject of the Met’s “Dendur Decoded” virtual reality experience. Her work on the project provides opportunities for App State students to explore their classroom studies in a real-world context.
Meet Your Vagus Nerve: A Key Pathway Linking Brain, Body and Behavior [faculty featured]
Technology Networks
Dec. 11, 2025
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.
Educating generations: App State’s Lucy Brock program marks 85 years of preparing children and future educators to thrive
Dec. 10, 2025
For over 85 years, App State’s Lucy Brock Child Development Laboratory has provided the highest quality of education and care for regional children — while also functioning as a professional preparation site for future Mountaineer educators. The lab, which uses research-based practices, serves nearly 600 students annually.
App State's Office of Rural Promise fortifies student and teacher success in North Carolina
Dec. 8, 2025
App State’s newly launched Office of Rural Promise fosters regional connections and supports growing programs that advance the success of students and educators in North Carolina schools. It serves as a strategic driver supporting the university’s research and innovation enterprise.
Passport, please! — App State ranks 4th nationally for study abroad participation
Faculty and alumni share their international learning experiences
Dec. 4, 2025
App State ranks No. 4 nationally among master’s institutions for study abroad participation, according to the latest “Open Doors Report.” Here, App State students and faculty share how living and learning overseas expanded their worldview and supported their growth as individuals.
Rural America, Growth Area? [faculty featured]
The Chronicle of Higher Education
Dec. 3, 2025
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.
App State named a top 5 school nationally for service members, veterans for 2025 — Military Times
Dec. 3, 2025
App State has been recognized among the nation’s top higher education institutions for military service members and veterans, ranking as a top five school named to Military Times’ 2025 “Best for Vets: Colleges” rankings list.
Best Small Stadium In America? Appalachian State's Home In The Mountains [alumni featured]
Sports Illustrated
Dec. 2, 2025
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.