Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni and Friends,

I’d like to take a moment to introduce myself to those of you who don’t yet know me.

For more than 20 years, I’ve dedicated my career to Appalachian State University. I came here because I was impressed by Appalachian’s stated mission of educational access, and when I visited, I saw it to be true. Over my time here, the faculty and staff dedication to student success, which has characterized the institution for 125 years, continues to be strong to this day.

I joined the faculty of the Walker College of Business in 2003, and my home department remains the Department of Finance, Banking and Insurance. I served the college as assistant, associate and senior associate dean, as well as acting and interim dean and then dean, before becoming App State’s provost. I served as interim provost during some of the most challenging times in university history, as we worked to provide the best possible educational experience for our students, and keep faculty and staff employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and in 2021, I was appointed to the role of provost and executive vice chancellor.

I am dedicated to the success of our students, faculty and staff. Together, we make our university community stronger through our shared work, our love for our university and our desire for one another to succeed personally and professionally. Our university has a history of resiliency in meeting and overcoming challenges. I call on you to join me in supporting a university culture that endeavors to do this with respect and civility.

I’m honored to serve the university in this interim role, and extend my thanks to UNC System President Peter Hans for the opportunity to do so. Appalachian State University has been my home for more than 20 years. During my time here, it was my privilege to work with two great Chancellors: Chancellor Everts, who provided me the opportunity to serve as Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor, and Chancellor Peacock, who first gave me the opportunity to serve the university when he was Dean of the Walker College of Business and hired me to join the faculty. I value their many accomplishments and appreciate the opportunities each gave me to serve our university.

I look forward to working collaboratively with you, our governing boards, UNC System colleagues, and our local communities to ensure the continued success of this great institution and our region.

Sincerely,

Heather Hulburt Norris
Interim Chancellor