High Country Times

An echo from the past marked the beginning of Founders Day at Appalachian State University as the Founders Bell rang to celebrate the institution's 125th anniversary. This historic bell, located in the B.B. Dougherty Administration Building, first called students to classes at Watauga Academy in 1899.

Hundreds gathered on November 21st on App State’s Boone campus for the seventh annual Founders Day. The event honors App State’s founders—B.B., D.D., and Lillie Shull Dougherty—and commemorates the first day of classes at Watauga Academy, held on September 5, 1899. This year marked a celebration of App State’s legacy as a leader in higher education.

“125 years ago, three visionaries established a mission to provide access to education for the children and families of the High Country,” said Interim Chancellor Heather Norris. “125 years later, we recognize what an ambitious vision it was and acknowledge their remarkable legacy.”

The ceremony was attended by descendants of the Dougherty family, University of North Carolina System Board member C. Philip Byers ’85, former Chancellor Harvey Durham and his wife Susan, and former first lady Rosanne Peacock.

Remarks were delivered by Norris, Jeannine Underdown Collins ’79 ’81 from the Appalachian State University Foundation Board, Professor Emerita Dr. Bettie Bond, and Justin Somers representing U.S. Sen. Ted Budd ’94. Jack Wilhelm opened with a vocal performance of App State’s alma mater.

Norris highlighted the university's relationship with Boone: “For 125 years...Appalachian State University — along with this community — has enriched the quality of life for the High Country by increasing prosperity, wellness and opportunity.”

Underdown Collins emphasized App State's impact beyond its physical presence: “Appalachian is more than...brick and mortar. It’s...the experiences that make up Appalachian and change lives and communities.”

Bond shared her personal connection with App State leaders since arriving in Boone in 1971.

Somers presented Norris with a framed copy of Budd's Senate proclamation honoring App State’s 125th year: “Given its worldwide reputation, App State has remained true to its mission as a rural institution known for service to its local and regional communities.”

The ceremony concluded with bell ringing by new members inducted into App State’s Bell Ringers Society.

Founders Day continued with activities in Plemmons Student Union after being rescheduled due to Hurricane Helene.

Founded as Watauga Academy in 1899 by B.B., D.D., and Lillie Shull Dougherty, App State evolved into a public institution offering over 150 undergraduate programs and enrolling over 21,000 students today.

The university recently opened its second campus in Hickory and partnered with Project Kitty Hawk to expand online education access for nontraditional learners.

Appalachian State University is recognized nationally for academics and athletics while maintaining its commitment to educational access.