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Appalachian State University’s division of Student Affairs develops lifelong learners and leaders by engaging and challenging students within a culture of care and inclusion. We aspire to transform all students through a foundation of care and engagement.

Our work creates a culture of care that builds a foundation for students to thrive and be resilient. Our diverse, student-centered community fosters local-to-global learning, leadership, engagement, and service. We transform students into dynamic leaders and lifelong learners who will make a difference in their communities and throughout the world.

App State University Celebrating 125 Years!

As you know, our dear University turned 125 years old this year.  Several events were planned, but due to Hurricane Helene had to be rescheduled. Below you will find a couple of the rescheduled events to help us celebrate this incredible milestone. You should be receiving a University email with more details soon. 

The Bell Ringers Ceremony has been rescheduled for November 21st at 10:00 am in the BB Dougherty Lobby.  

What is the Bell Ringers Society?  The ringing of the Founders Bell, an iconic symbol of App State’s history — was established Sept. 5, 2019, as the university celebrated its second annual Founders Day. Twelve members of the App State Community were selected to ring the bell 10 times each to signify the university’s 120th anniversary as an innovator and leader in higher education. New members are inducted into the society each year to ring the bell. These 12 bell ringers below were the inaugural members of App State’s Bell Ringers Society:

  • Dr. John Thomas.
  • Reba Moretz ’52 ’53.
  • Julia Adams ’56.
  • Doris Stam.
  • Philip Byers ’85.
  • John Blackburn
  • Jerry Moore.
  • Penn Broyhill.
  • Jeannine Underdown Collins ’79 ’81.
  • Dr. Rennie Brantz.
  • Sammy Hartley ’72 ’73.
  • Dejon Milbourne.

The 12th Anniversary Student Celebration will take place in the Solarium from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm (November 21st as well). This will include free pizza and T-shirts, a photo booth, games and activities for students. All of campus is invited and encouraged to join in the fun.

Oct 31
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Mountain Strong Homecoming

Homecoming festivities will now take place November 16-23, and we are excited for students, alumni, and community members to celebrate Appalachian State and support our beautiful region.  To recognize the resilience of our community, we have changed the theme to Mountain Strong Homecoming

 There will not be a club competition.  However, there are still ways for clubs to participate in Homecoming:  

  • We will still recognize Homecoming Court and crown Top of the Rock at the Homecoming Game on November 23. Thanks to everyone who volunteered to conduct interviews!
  • Clubs are encouraged to submit banners to decorate the Student Union with the new Mountain Strong theme or the Yosef National Park theme if they have already begun working on it.  
  • For ALL the details, see the updated schedule.
  • Alumni Association Homecoming events can be found here.

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. We look forward to celebrating together!

Oct 31
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Leadership Studies Program

Encourage your students to take Leadership Studies courses!

Leadership Studies courses and the Leadership Studies Minor provide learning opportunities for any student who wants to develop as a leader. Students can take a class or declare the 18-credit minor and join a cohort of leaders! Have any students interested and want to learn more about Leadership Studies? Email [email protected].

Spring 2025 Offerings: 

  • LDS 2700: Principles of Leadership
  • LDS 3544: Group and Organizational Leadership
  • LDS 3536: Socially-Responsible Leadership in Scotland (study abroad)
  • LDS 4700: Capstone Seminar in Leadership (seniors only) 
Oct 31
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Congratulations, Paul Ford

Paul Ford is the ACUI Region III Smith-Steele Professional Staff Award Recipient!!!

We are thrilled to announce that Paul Ford was honored with the Smith-Steele Professional Staff Award at the recent ACUI Region III Conference. This prestigious award is given to union and student activities professionals within Region III who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their campus community, ACUI, and the profession as a whole.

With over 20 years of service, Paul’s commitment to students, our community, and ACUI has truly made a lasting impact. Please join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved recognition!

Oct 31
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