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

  • 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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  • App State Update: A message from Interim Chancellor Heather Norris
    Friday, October 18, 2024

    When we began this week, we took a big step forward on our long and varied road to recovery. I commend our many students, who were unsure of what it would be like to return to the classroom and to campus, and our faculty and staff, who were uncertain of what needs would arise that they would be called on to meet and who, together, bravely took that important step forward.

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