Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris
Dr. Heather Norris
Interim Chancellor

Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris became Appalachian State University’s ninth leader on April 19, 2024. She brings more than two decades of academic leadership, vision and expertise to the role, after having served as App State’s provost and executive vice chancellor since May 2021. She fulfilled that role in an interim capacity beginning in February 2020. Her career has been characterized by her strong, collaborative leadership and service to both App State and the greater community.

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Chancellor's messages

  • A Tribute to Chancellor Francis T. Borkowski
    Wednesday, January 22, 2025

    It is with great sadness that I share that Dr. Francis Thomas Borkowski, Appalachian State University’s fifth leader, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 19.

    Frank led our university for 10 years from 1993 to 2003, and during this time, he strengthened the university’s academic reputation, expanding our global education programs, supporting programs designed for first-year students’ success, and helping extend the reach of the university’s arts programs through An Appalachian Summer Festival and the Hayes School of Music, which was named under his tenure in honor of Mariam Cannon Hayes, who had contributed the university’s largest gift to date in support of the arts at the university.

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  • Remarks from the December 6, 2024, Meeting of the Board of Trustees
    Friday, December 6, 2024

    Thank you, Chair Ricks.

    I’d like to begin by thanking Trustee Schaefer for hosting us for a fabulous reception last night. It was a lovely evening with wonderful people in a magical setting. A great way to end a semester and begin a holiday season! 

    My report today will focus on App State’s enduring resilience, as evidenced by our Mountain Strong recovery from Hurricane Helene, as well as our successes in teaching, research, fundraising and athletics.

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  • 2024 Founders Day Remarks
    Thursday, November 21, 2024

    Good morning, and welcome!

    Today we're commemorating the 125th anniversary of our university expanding access to education in Northwestern North Carolina. And, we will welcome nine new members into the university’s esteemed Bell Ringers Society. Typically, we would hold this event on Founders Plaza. However, a couple of months ago, Mother Nature changed our plans and I think Mother Nature is a little chilly out there today too. Thanks to the hard work of many on our campus, we are fortunate to be able to gather today for this rescheduled event!

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