High Country Times

As Appalachian State University concludes its 125th year, the institution reflects on a period characterized by growth and achievement. The university's efforts in expanding education access, securing research funding, enhancing campus facilities, and recovering from Hurricane Helene were notable highlights of 2024.

Appalachian State remained dedicated to its mission of providing higher education access. This commitment led to significant growth in student populations at both the Hickory campus and through App State Online for the 2024–25 academic year.

In fiscal year 2024, research and creative projects at Appalachian State received $25.8 million in funding. This marked a nearly 75% increase over five years. In October, the university joined six other UNC System institutions as a headquarters for NCInnovation, which supports innovative research at North Carolina’s public universities.

The fall semester presented challenges when Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina on September 27. The storm caused flooding, landslides, power outages, and road closures. While the Hickory campus was unaffected, Boone campus faced damages including water damage in several academic buildings. Despite these setbacks, classes resumed 19 days after the hurricane hit.

Efforts to support the community included providing 80,000 free meals and establishing an emergency shelter with the American Red Cross. Additionally, $4 million was raised for bridge funding to assist students, faculty, and staff affected by the storm.

Capital improvement projects are ongoing at both Boone and Hickory campuses with investments totaling more than $350 million—one of the largest within the UNC System.

In athletics, Appalachian State’s football program welcomed Dowell Loggains as its new head coach during a season that marked their third consecutive sell-out.

Appalachian State University is recognized for preparing students for purposeful lives as part of the University of North Carolina System. It offers over 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors across its campuses and online platform.