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.