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 holding the Mace
Installation of Dr. Heather H. Norris, Eighth Chancellor of Appalachian State University

Dr. Heather H. Norris was installed as App State’s eighth chancellor on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025.

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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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Read, subscribe and share the latest updates from App State, via Inside Appalachian, Chancellor Norris' newsletter.

Chancellor's messages

  • Remarks from the September 4th, 2026 Meeting of the Board of Trustees
    Friday, September 4, 2026

    Thank you, Chair Ricks, and good morning, everyone!

    I want to begin my remarks today by extending a warm welcome to Elizabeth Ford, App State’s student body president and the newest member of this board. Elizabeth, we look forward to your leadership, energy and perspective on behalf of our students and App State Community.

    There is nothing quite like the opening weeks of a new academic year at App State — with the sound of the Marching Mountaineers filling the air, Sanford Mall coming alive with students and our campus buzzing with new connections and bold ideas. Amid all of this dynamic energy, one thing remains constant: Every decision we make is guided by our laser focus on the student experience and student success, and our obligation to the people and communities of North Carolina.

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  • 2026 State of the University Address
    Friday, August 28, 2026

    Good afternoon, everyone!

    Whether you are joining us in this beautiful space or tuning in via the livestream, I want to thank you for bringing your time and energy to our gathering today.

    I extend a special welcome to our newest faculty and staff members. For those I have not yet met, I’m Heather Norris, and it is my honor and joy to serve as App State’s chancellor. By choosing App State, you have become a part of a talented and purpose-driven community, united by a shared commitment to student success, academic excellence, and meaningful impact across our region and beyond.

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  • A welcome message from Chancellor Norris
    Monday, August 17, 2026

    Happy first day of classes, Mountaineers!

    It’s always great to be a Mountaineer — especially on the first day of classes! I hope you’ll take a moment to watch this short welcome video as we kick off a brand-new academic year.

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