High Country Times

Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris has been appointed as the new chancellor of Appalachian State University, effective March 1. The announcement was made by University of North Carolina System President Peter Hans following her election by the Board of Governors of the 17-campus University of North Carolina System on February 27.

“Dr. Norris has been a widely respected leader and scholar in the Appalachian community for more than two decades, and her service as interim chancellor since last April has been exemplary,” Hans stated. He praised her ability to handle complex issues while maintaining focus on the university’s mission.

Hans also highlighted Norris' role in uniting the university and community after Hurricane Helene. Wendy Murphy, Chair of the UNC Board of Governors, emphasized Norris’ financial expertise and leadership experience as advantageous for the university's future.

Mark E. Ricks, chair of App State’s Board of Trustees, expressed optimism about Norris leading the university during its transition to a Research 2 institution under Carnegie Classification. “This is an exciting time for App State,” Ricks said.

Norris herself expressed commitment to strengthening relationships with surrounding communities and continuing efforts initiated during her interim tenure. She acknowledged support from various stakeholders including faculty, staff, students, alumni, and her leadership team.

The search process for a new chancellor began in August 2024 but was temporarily halted due to Hurricane Helene. Sen. Deanna Ballard chaired the Chancellor Search Advisory Committee which considered over 40 applicants before selecting Norris based on her deep connection to App State and ability to maintain stability during challenging times.

Appalachian State University enrolls over 21,500 students across its Boone and Hickory campuses as well as online programs. The institution recently achieved a Research 2 designation indicating high research activity—a status shared by only five other public or private universities in North Carolina.

Norris joined App State in 2003 as an assistant professor at Walker College of Business’ Department of Finance, Banking and Insurance before advancing through various leadership roles including dean and provost positions. Her tenure saw significant growth in fundraising efforts alongside strategic developments aimed at enhancing academic affairs and research initiatives.

Beyond academia, Norris volunteers with regional organizations such as Children’s Hope Alliance and Boone Area Chamber of Commerce while maintaining strong ties within rural Western North Carolina where she resides with family members who have lived there for generations.

“As a faculty member administrator individual I value academic freedom freedom expression honesty integrity” said Norris emphasizing collaborative efforts involving constituent groups throughout her career journey thus far ultimately striving towards achieving greater educational excellence student success within broader community context moving forward into future endeavors together collectively united purpose shared vision common goals aspirations alike altogether overall.”