July 2019 AppDate Alumni Newsletter message

AppDate, the July 2019 Alumni Newsletter
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
Chancellor Sheri Everts’ message to alumni
Our alumni reflect Appalachian’s place as the premier, public undergraduate university in the state, and it is my pleasure to welcome all of you back to campus as often as possible. Where better to spend summer days than at 3,333 feet? I encourage you to engage with your alma mater this summer — meet the next generation of Mountaineers, see the extensive campus improvements underway or take in a show.
An Appalachian Summer Festival recently launched its 35th season, with several marquee events scheduled for July, including The Temptations, Punch Brothers and Lily Tomlin. I am proud that we bring such an eclectic mix of music, dance, theatre, visual arts and film to the High Country, and the festival continues to grow with each exceptional season.
In addition to robust arts and cultural offerings, Appalachian provides unmatched access to the outdoors. Proof positive of our excellence in outdoor recreation, Peterson’s, the world’s leading educational services company, named Appalachian in its nationwide list of “The 20 Best Colleges for Outdoor Enthusiasts.” As you’ve experienced first-hand, our location in the Blue Ridge Mountains augments our academic programs and research in areas that include geology, environmental science, sustainable development and many others.
Looking ahead to this fall, I invite all alumni to save the date for Founders Day on Thursday, Sept. 5. This auspicious event honors our founders and marks 120 years since the first day of classes at Appalachian in 1899.
I look forward to seeing you at our campus in the mountains.