Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris
Dr. Heather Norris
Chancellor

Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris became chancellor of Appalachian State University on March 1, 2025, after having served as interim chancellor of App State since April 19, 2024. With more than two decades of academic leadership, vision and expertise at App State, Chancellor Norris’ career has been characterized by her strong, collaborative leadership and service to both App State and the greater community. Prior to her appointments as chancellor and interim chancellor, Norris served as provost and executive vice chancellor of App State — on an interim basis in 2020 and fully in 2021.

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Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris Portrait
Installation of Dr. Heather H. Norris, Eighth Chancellor of Appalachian State University

The Board of Trustees of Appalachian State University requests the honor of your presence at the Installation of Dr. Heather H. Norris.

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Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris at Announcement event
Dr. Heather Norris named chancellor of Appalachian State University

On Feb. 27, 2025, the UNC Board of Governors elected Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris as the next leader of Appalachian State University. The university celebrated her appointment with events on Feb. 27 and 28.

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Watch the Feb. 27 livestreamed remarks from Appalachian State University’s next chancellor.

Watch the Feb. 27 meeting of the UNC Board of Governors here.



Chancellor's messages

  • Remarks from the September 5th, 2025 Meeting of the Board of Trustees
    Friday, September 5, 2025

    It's been an exciting beginning to the academic year! Following the groundbreaking for the Sofield Family Indoor Practice Facility, the big wins have continued for Mountaineer Athletics. Cross country, field hockey, soccer and volleyball are all starting out their seasons with great success! And of course, we’re excited to go into our first home Mountaineer football game 1-0. More than 10,000 student tickets have already been claimed for this game — so we know it will be a fun experience for students and their families here for Family Weekend!

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  • Chancellor Heather Norris' State of the University Address livestream Thursday, Aug. 21 2:00 p.m.
    Thursday, August 21, 2025

    Welcome, everyone! I'm glad to see many of you here in person, and thanks to those of you who are joining via the livestream.

    To those of you who are new to Appalachian State University, I extend a special welcome! You've joined an incredible community of supportive and engaged colleagues who are dedicated to our founding mission of providing students with access to a high-quality education and ensuring their success.

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  • A welcome message from Chancellor Norris
    Monday, August 18, 2025

    Welcome, Mountaineers, to a new academic year!

    I hope you’ll take a moment to watch this short video as you begin the first day of classes.

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