A Cherokee Flag in Plemmons
Our first big snowfall is blanketing the campus — you may enjoy reading the story published last winter about how our capable and dedicated Physical Plant workers help us cope with the snow.
On Wednesday, Dec. 6 at a ceremony attended by more than 250 in person and another 100 via livestream, Appalachian took steps to begin publicly symbolizing this sentiment on our campus by placing the flag of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee in its permanent home in Plemmons Student Union. In recognition of our five-year partnership with Cherokee High School, as well as in acknowledgment of the cultural heritage and presence of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee in this part of the state, the flag is positioned in a place of prominence, along with the American, Chinese and Israeli national flags.
Recently, the Town of Boone Mayor Rennie Brantz declared November as Native American Heritage Month. I applaud the work the town is doing to continue making our surrounding community a more inclusive environment for all.
Both the flag raising and the declaration by Mayor Brantz are only small steps in our journey to achieving inclusive excellence at Appalachian and in the community. Thank you all for walking – and working – alongside us.
Sheri Everts, Chancellor