Appalachian State University has received national recognition for its commitment to community engagement, which is demonstrated through academic programs and outreach activities. The Community Engagement Classification was awarded by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, a leading framework for categorizing higher education institutions in the United States.
“Giving back to our community is fundamental to who we are at App State, and I am proud of our campus community for the many ways we contribute to the communities we serve,” said App State Chancellor Heather Norris. “It is heartwarming to lead a university that values such a strong commitment to service.”
The classification process involves each institution conducting a self-study. Currently, 277 institutions have this designation.
“App State’s continuing commitment to community engagement fosters meaningful partnerships with our broader communities and enhances the educational experience for our students,” said Dr. Brian MacHarg, director of academic civic engagement at App State. “By integrating community engagement into our core academic identity and strategic direction, we ensure our students gain valuable practical skills while making a positive impact on society.”
This is Appalachian State’s third time receiving the Community Engagement designation from Carnegie. In 2025, the university also achieved Carnegie Classification as a Research 2 institution, recognizing high research activity and doctorate production.
Community engagement at Appalachian State spans health care, education, business, arts and athletics. Service remains an important aspect across these areas.
The university was recognized with the 2025 Large Business of the Year Award from the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce for its leadership and impact in the High Country region. Chancellor Norris accepted this award during an event held on January 15 at Appalachian State’s Boone campus.
“As the largest employer in Watauga County and one of its most significant investors, App State continues to shape the local economy while balancing institutional growth with the needs of the community,” stated the chamber in its announcement.
Appalachian State University serves more than 21,000 students through undergraduate and graduate programs across its campuses in Boone and Hickory as well as online offerings statewide and beyond (https://www.appstate.edu). The university belongs to the University of North Carolina System (https://www.appstate.edu) and offers over 150 undergraduate majors and 80 graduate programs (https://www.appstate.edu).
Facilities span 1,200 acres designed for academic, residential and recreational use (https://www.appstate.edu). The institution has earned national recognition from sources such as U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review and Forbes for academics, value, innovation and sustainability (https://www.appstate.edu).
Founded initially to provide teacher education in rural western North Carolina, Appalachian State focuses on preparing students as engaged global citizens aware of their role in building sustainable futures (https://www.appstate.edu).
