BOONE, N.C. — The Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) hosted the 2022-23 CAS Outstanding Senior Recognition Ceremony on Friday, April 21, 2023, in the Grandfather Mountain Ballroom in the Plemmons Student Union. During the ceremony, 91 seniors and 8 graduating CAS Corps members were recognized for their accomplishments.
See below to learn more about this year's outstanding seniors and their plans for the future. Note: The content below only includes the students who consented to being featured on our website and social media accounts.
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Department of Anthropology
Kaity Bailey, senior from Cornelius majoring in anthropology, is a recipient of the department's 2023 Loucks Memorial Award for Outstanding Senior in Anthropology. “I loved getting to make so many new friends and learning more about my chosen field of study. Additionally, I loved learning from exceptional professors who made coming to class such a memorable and enjoyable experience,” she said. Following graduation, Bailey plans to gain more experience through an internship and eventually pursue a master's degree in osteology.
J.S. Braun, senior from Durham majoring in multidisciplinary anthropology, is a recipient of the department's 2023 Loucks Memorial Award for Outstanding Senior in Anthropology. “I really benefited from the outstanding support from my professors. I felt like all my professors absolutely love what they do and want nothing more than to see us all succeed!” said Braun, who plans to apply to graduate programs later this year.
Luca Coleman, senior from Westminster double majoring in sociocultural anthropology and international economics, is a recipient of the department's 2023 Loucks Memorial Award for Outstanding Senior in Anthropology. Coleman shared that their favorite part of App State was the professors. After graduation, Coleman plans to attend graduate school.
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Department of Biology
Mary Burrows, senior from Cary majoring in integrative biology, received the Integrative Biology Award for the highest grade point average in the integrative biology concentration. Burrows shared that her favorite part of App State was the support she received from professors. After graduation, Burrows plans to apply to graduate programs.
Gabrianne Ivey, senior from Franklin majoring in cell and molecular biology, received both the Biology Outstanding Senior Award and the Mary Connell Award for the highest grade point average in the cell/molecular biology concentration. “My favorite part about App State and the Department of Biology is the research that I have been able to do with Dr. Seals…I am also thankful that I had the opportunity to present my research at various conferences and work on a thesis for the Honors College and departmental honors,” said Ivey, who will pursue her master’s degree at Clemson University beginning in the Fall.
Brent Kinser, senior from Cary majoring in ecology, evolution and environmental biology, received both the Biology Outstanding Senior Award and the Wayne Van Devender Award for the highest grade point average in the ecology, evolution and environmental biology concentration. Following graduation, Kinser plans to continue his research and begin applying to Ph.D. programs in the Fall.
Alan Reich, senior from Emerald Isle majoring in ecology, evolution and environmental biology, received the Biology Outstanding Senior Award. Reich said his favorite part of App State was “the willingness of professors, especially Dr. Lynn Siefferman and Dr. Matt Estep, to help me to get involved in their research labs and gain experience. I have made memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.” After graduation, Reich hopes to continue his research and pursue a graduate degree.
Olivia Roehl, senior from Raleigh majoring in biology, received the Jeffrey Butts Award for the highest grade point average in the Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. Roehl’s favorite part of App State was the outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, tubing, kayaking, snowboarding and sledding. Following graduation, Roehl will move to Raleigh to pursue a career in biology.
Elva Swibold, senior from Lansing majoring in ecology, evolution and enviromental biology, received both the Biology Outstanding Senior Award and the Wayne Van Devender Award for the highest grade point average in the ecology, evolution and environmental biology concentration. Swibold’s favorite part of App State was the research, and they plan on pursuing a Ph.D. in Sensory Ecology in the future.
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Department of Chemistry & Fermentation Sciences
Abby Bennett, alumna from Charlotte majoring in individually-designed chemistry, received the Chemistry Outstanding Senior Award. Bennett is currently enrolled in the Master of Nutrition program at North Carolina State University and working as a research assistant with the LilaLab at the Plants for Human Health Institute.
Logan Isley, senior from Kernersville majoring in fermentation sciences, received the Fermentation Sciences Leadership Award. About her App State experience, Isley said, “My favorite part was the community and support system I had within my department. Beyond classmates, these people are genuine friends!” Following graduation, Isley hopes to find a job in the brewing industry.
Megan Learn, senior from Greensboro majoring in chemistry with a concentration in fermentation sciences, received the Fermentation Sciences Research Award. “I have loved my experience in the fermentation program, particularly how hands-on my classes have been and the friendships that I've made,” shared Learn, who plans to enter the workforce after graduation.
Ian Sullivan, senior from Cary majoring in chemistry with a concentration in fermentation sciences, received the Fermentation Sciences Peer Educator Award. Sullivan’s favorite part of App State was his participation in extracurricular activities and the opportunities offered. Following graduation, Sullivan plans to enter the workforce.
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Department of Computer Science
Sophie Columbia, senior from Durham majoring in computer science, received the Computer Science Outstanding Senior Award. “For me, the people I've met have defined my Appalachian experience. Whether it be in my department or the Honors College, I knew that anyone I talked to would be willing to move mountains to support me,” said Columbia, who will pursue her Master of Science degree in Computer Science at App State beginning in the Fall.
Will O’Brien, senior from Charlotte majoring in computer science, received the Computer Science Leadership Award. “I loved how much I could get to know my professors here,” shared O’Brien. “It really felt like I could learn a lot about anything I wanted to as long as I spent enough time to find the right person to ask for help.” Like Columbia, O’Brien will begin graduate school at App State in the Fall.
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Department of English
Maddie Ball, senior from Hendersonville majoring in English with a concentration in professional writing, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. Ball’s favorite part of App State was the professors and her fellow students. Following graduation, Ball hopes to make an impact in the Appalachian community.
Abbigail Coleman, senior from Lincolnton majoring in English with a concentration in secondary education, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. My favorite part about my department was probably being able to find people that are just as obsessed with reading as me,” shared Coleman, who plans to search for a teaching job in Lincoln or Catawba County after graduation. “I have also planned to look for side jobs, such as starting an Etsy shop or some other form of content creation,” she added.
Harley Davis, senior from Asheville majoring in English with a concentration in film studies, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. “The time spent in the English department discussing literature and film with other people has been my favorite part of my academic experience,” said Davis, who plans to keep writing and pursue a job in film following graduation.
Mie Jean Finney, senior from Reidsville majoring in English with a concentration in professional writing, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. After graduation, Finney plans to pursue a master’s degree.
Sabrina Hess, senior from Cary majoring in English with a concentration in literary studies, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. “One of my favorite parts about App was how passionate the professors were about what they were teaching and doing research on! The passion the professors bring to App makes the classes they teach even more engaging,” said Hess, who will pursue her master’s degree at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville beginning in the Fall.
Hannah Hollifield, senior from Spruce Pine majoring in English with a concentration in literary studies, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of Appalachian State was the English department. All of my professors have been wonderful in helping me learn and challenge myself in how I understand literature and writing,” said Hollifield, who hopes to travel before applying to graduate school in the Fall.
Maggie Pendergrass, senior from Statesville majoring in English with a concentration in secondary education, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. Pendergrass’ favorite part of App State was the phenomenal professors in the English and education programs. “While there is still a focus on student performance, it is clear to see that the majority of the staff in these departments view their students as people and individuals rather than numbers or grades,” she added. Following graduation, Pendergrass plans to earn her master’s degree at App State and then become a teacher.
Jade Rabah, senior from Charlotte majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing, is a recipient of the English Outstanding Senior Award. Rabah’s favorite part of App State was having the freedom to write the fiction stories of her choosing. After graduation, Rabah hopes to finish her novels and enter the publishing industry.
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Department of Geography & Planning
Will Bennett, senior from Durham majoring in geography with a concentration in geographic information systems (GIS), is a recipient of the Geography & Planning Outstanding Senior Award. After graduation, Bennett plans to complete his master’s degree in geography at App State and then work in conservation or natural resources.
Malikia Cherubala, senior from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo majoring in community and regional planning, is a recipient of the Geography & Planning Outstanding Senior Award. Cherubala’s favorite part of App State was interacting with faculty. Following graduation, she will work as a Community Development Planner for the City of Salisbury.
Jason Ehlenberger, senior from Linville Falls double majoring in community and regional planning and geography with a concentration in GIS, is a recipient of the Geography & Planning Outstanding Senior Award. “I'm an older student, starting off in my second career. Seeing other students progress through their programs gives me a great deal of confidence that our future is in good hands. I'm also fortunate to have faculty members who are knowledgeable and passionate about their subject matter, and who are proactively engaged with students to pass that knowledge on to the next generation of scholars and professionals.” said Ehlenberger, who will complete his master’s degree in geography at App State next.
Charlote Tesh, senior from Honolulu, Hawaii majoring in geography, is a recipient of the Geography & Planning Outstanding Senior Award. Tesh remarked that the faculty in the department were “great and helpful.” After graduation, Tesh plans to work full-time and continue building her GIS skills through certifications.
Patrick Werner, senior from Davidson double majoring in community and regional planning and geography with a concentration in GIS, is a recipient of the Geography & Planning Outstanding Senior Award. Werner said his favorite parts of App State were “celebrating football victories and theatrical performances, internship experience and professional guidance from Dr. Shay and Dr. van de Gevel, collaborating with faculty and graduate students in the departments of education and social work, and presenting my internship project across the region.” Werner plans to travel and start a new career after graduation.
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Department of Geological & Environmental Sciences
Cape Dickerson, senior from Rutherfordton majoring in geology, is a recipient of the Geological & Environmental Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. His favorite part of the department was the unending support provided by the professors. Following graduation, Dickerson plans to pursue a career in geology.
Lacey Gibbs, senior from Knightdale majoring in environmental science with a concentration in life science, is a recipient of the Geological & Environmental Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. Gibbs shared that her favorite part of App State was “being given the opportunity and resources to work on projects that I am passionate about.” After graduation, Gibbs will work as a Surveyor Assistant at WSP.
Carter Smith, senior from Winterville majoring in environmental science with a concentration in Earth systems, is a recipient of the Geological & Environmental Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. Following graduation, Smith says he plans to “explore the geology which I have learned.”
Lily Vowels, senior from Elizabethtown, Kentucky majoring in geology with a concentration in quantitative geoscience, is a recipient of the Geological & Environmental Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of the GES was definitely the culture and camaraderie that the students built, even through the pandemic and remote learning,” said Vowels, who will pursue her master’s degree at Louisiana State University in the Fall.
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Department of Government & Justice Studies
Mia Bocko, senior from Chapel Hill double majoring in political science and Spanish, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “The professors truly care about the students and their success, with the small class sizes, they were able to connect with us on a personal and academic level,” said Bocko, who will complete her master’s degree at App State in the Fall before moving to Spain for a year to teach English and/or apply for a Fulbright.
Drake Elliott, senior from Fleetwood majoring in criminal justice, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. Elliott’s favorite memory from App State was his trip to Washington, DC with Dr. Jeff Holcomb’s “Intelligence and Security in DC” course during Summer 2022. Elliott, who is minoring in military science and leadership, will commission into the Army as a Second Lieutenant after graduation.
Faith Himmel, senior from Kittrell majoring in criminal justice with a concentration in international studies, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of the department has been the professors. They are knowledgeable and willing to engage with students to help us succeed. Being able to learn from them in class has expanded my knowledge of the criminal justice field and helped me understand how I can use my career to serve others,” said Himmel, who plans to pursue a career in law enforcement with the aspiration of working for the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
Carla Huggins, senior from Yadkinville majoring in political science with a concentration in American politics, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of the department was the support and encouragement I received from them! They were always willing to help me out and answer my questions, and App State as a whole gave me an amazing community full of opportunity!” said Huggins, who hopes to pursue either historical or advocacy work following graduation.
Zannah Kukral, senior from Charlotte majoring in political science with a concentration in pre-professional legal studies, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “I felt really supported by my professors all throughout my undergrad; at the end of the day, they were there for me because they cared,” said Kukral, who plans to attend law school and pursue criminal defense following graduation.
Matthew Mair, senior from Charlotte double majoring in political science with a concentration in international and comparative politics and economics with a concentration in environmental economics and policy, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. Mair’s favorite part of the political science program was participating in a semester-long United Nations simulation in Dr. Renee Scherlen’s “International Organizations” course. “I plan to pursue graduate school in economics with the eventual hopes of getting a Ph.D. and teaching at a university. I am also in the process of applying to the Fulbright award to study economic impacts of sea level rise in the Caribbean,” said Mair.
Katelyn McKinney, senior from Reidsville majoring in political science with a concentration in public administration and management, is a recipient of the Government & Justice Studies Outstanding Senior Award. McKinney says her favorite part about App State is the friendly community and outstanding professors in the political science program. After graduation, McKinney plans to attend graduate school to earn her Master of Public Administration degree with the goal of becoming a city manager.
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Department of History
Arden Fleming, senior from Charlotte majoring in applied and public history, is a recipient of the History Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part about the history department is how passionate and personable the professors have been and how much exploring personal interests has been embraced,” said Fleming, who plans to enter the workforce before attending graduate school.
Deacon Harris, senior from Syracuse, New York majoring in social studies and history education, is a recipient of the History Outstanding Senior Award. Harris’ favorite part of App State was “the supportive academic and lively town community.” Following graduation, Harris will teach high school social studies.
Jacqueline Rullman, senior from Shelby majoring in history, is a recipient of the History Outstanding Senior Award. Rullman’s favorite part of App State was “the variety of classes I was able to choose from and the ability to have lots of seminar type classes.” “The faculty is always so wonderful and helpful!” added Rullman, who plans to apply and attend law school next.
Ryan Whalen, senior from Cary majoring in social studies and history education, is a recipient of the History Outstanding Senior Award. After graduation, Whalen will teach in Wake County.
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Department of Interdisciplinary Studies
Addie Magyar, senior from Colfax double majoring in individually-designed interdisciplinary studies and art and visual culture with a concentration in art history, is a recipient of the Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Senior Award. After graduation, Magyar will move to Raleigh to gain experience before eventually attending graduate school to study art conservation.
Caroline McCrorey, senior from Huntersville majoring in individually-designed interdisciplinary studies, sustainable development and communication, is a recipient of the Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Senior Award. McCrorey said her favorite parts of App State were “being able to see my peers, ingenuity and watching us all explore our passions.” Following graduation, McCrorey will stay in Boone and do digital marketing for a small company.
Tara Rogers, senior from Clarkton majoring in gender, women’s and sexuality studies, is a recipient of the Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of App State was working with my scholarship — the Diversity Scholars. Because of this scholarship, I was provided so many opportunities throughout my education and my time on campus. It provided many connections on campus and led me to where I am today,” said Rogers. “My plans after graduation are to work with the College Advising Corps to give back to my hometown encouraging students in rural communities to have post-secondary plans in any productive capacity,” she added.
Meredith Sánchez-Sánchez, senior from Clayton majoring in global studies, is a recipient of the Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “I am planning on moving up north and doing some type of community or non-profit work focused on the Latine community,” shared Sánchez-Sánchez about their future plans.
Sarah Skergan, senior from Raleigh and member of the Watauga Residential College (WRC) majoring in communication sciences and disorders, is a recipient of the Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “I've absolutely loved all of the opportunities I've had to be involved on campus and all of the amazing faculty members I have met during my time here! I am so grateful for WRC and all of the opportunities and things I have learned from them,” said Skergan, who will pursue her master’s degree in speech-language pathology at Vanderbilt University next.
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Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures
Bre Alderfer, senior from Cape May, New Jersey majoring in German, is a recipient of the Languages, Literatures and Cultures Outstanding Senior Award. Alderfer said her favorite part of App State was “the inclusivity and knowledge of my professors and peers in a welcoming environment, specifically within the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.” Following graduation, Alderfer will accept a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Germany.
Dina Damiano, senior from Waxhaw double majoring in French and Francophone studies and English with a concentration in creative writing, is a recipient of the Languages, Literatures and Cultures Outstanding Senior Award. Damiano’s favorite parts of App State were “the accepting community, the diverse range of professors and teaching methods and, of course, the beautiful scenery.” After graduation, Damiano plans to pursue higher education and/or teaching certification.
Abbey Johnson, senior from Yadkinville majoring in Spanish with a concentration in K-12 education, is a recipient of the Languages, Literatures and Cultures Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of my department was the willingness of the professors to help you in and outside of class. Many professors met with me to answer questions, concerns, doubts, etc. that I had throughout my time at App even if I wasn't currently in their class or if it was about a different class. My favorite part of App State was the community that I was able to find here that helped me feel like I could be myself and grow as a person,” said Johnson, who plans to teach either English or Spanish as a second language after graduation. Additionally, Johnson will complete her master’s degree in romance languages with a concentration in teaching Spanish at the collegiate level.
Nina Kirkman, senior from Raleigh double majoring in German and East Asian languages and cultures, is a recipient of the Languages, Literatures and Cultures Outstanding Senior Award. Following graduation, Kirkman plans to take the Foreign Service Officer Test and apply for a Fulbright.
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Department of Mathematical Sciences
Margaret Barry, senior from Boone majoring in mathematics, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “I really enjoyed getting to know my professors and I loved all the math classes I had the opportunity to take,” shared Barry. About her plans after graduation, Barry said, “Teach math, travel abroad and then we’ll see!”
Caroline Fehlman, senior from Williamsburg, Virginia majoring in mathematics, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. Fehlman says her favorite part of App State was “going to Walker Hall everyday and seeing all my friends and faculty members that are so welcoming and supportive.” In the Fall, Fehlman will pursue her master’s degree in mathematics and geography at App State.
Gabriella Goelz, senior from Huntersville majoring in mathematics with a concentration in secondary education, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “In the math department at App State, I always felt like a welcomed and valued member of a close-knit community. It was obvious that the department's highest priority was cultivating an environment conducive to my personal growth and academic success,” shared Goelz, who plans on teaching high school mathematics in the Charlotte/Lake Norman area after graduation.
Jayne Hollar, senior from Lenoir majoring in mathematics with a concentration in statistics, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of the math department at App State has to be the professors and friends I’ve met during my time here. The professors truly care about the students here and are always there to talk about anything, math or otherwise,” said Hollar, who will move to Raleigh to pursue a Master of Science degree in Analytics from North Carolina State University’s Institute for Advanced Analytics next.
Aaron Lubkemann, senior from Boone majoring in mathematics with a concentration in physical sciences, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite aspect of the Department of Mathematical Sciences at App State is the feeling that the professors, staff, and students are all part of one big family. It was so neat to be able to wander through Walker Hall and know many of the faculty by name and be able to stop in to chat, ask questions or just say hello at any given time. Everyone in the department is so friendly and truly cares for the students within their reach,” shared Lubkemann, who will pursue a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington next.
Brody Miller, senior from Lenoir majoring in mathematics, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “I loved how the mathematics department has a strong focus on educational value and making sure students understand concepts in very ‘student-friendly’ ways,” explained Miller, who plans to pursue a master’s degree in mathematics at App State before getting his Ph.D. and becoming a professor.
Lyndsay Snider, senior from Leesburg, Virginia majoring in mathematics with a concentration in life sciences, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of the mathematical sciences department was the amazing faculty who shared a love and excitement for mathematics and prioritized student support and success,” said Snider, who will work as a medical scribe in the emergency department at UNC hospitals in Chapel Hill and Hillsborough for two years while applying and preparing for medical school.
Jenna Wray, senior from Stoneville majoring in actuarial science, is a recipient of the Mathematical Sciences Outstanding Senior Award. Wray says her favorite part of App State was the community. Following graduation, Wray will enter the actuarial job force in insurance.
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Department of Philosophy & Religion
Percy Aagon, senior from Mooresville double majoring in religious studies and psychology, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “I have greatly enjoyed the wide variety of topics available for study at App State. There are so many classes I chose because they looked so interesting and I would be remiss to not take them. Filling my time with learning subjects I enjoy, in addition to subjects I am required to learn, has led me to being more enthusiastic about the field I want to go into after leaving App State,” shared Aagon. About their plans after graduation, Aagon said, “I plan to get into the workforce so I can finance my graduate degrees. I am aiming to receive a doctorate in psychology while continuing to research my fascination with belief systems and technology. At this time, I am unsure which graduate program I will attend, but by keeping an open mind I am ready for whatever opportunities come my way.”
Daniel Collins, senior from Woodstock, Vermont majoring in religious studies, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “I loved everything about the Department of Philosophy and Religion at App, but my favorite thing was how personal every class felt. The small sizes and how much effort and attention professors put into the lectures or discussions is something I really feel is unmatched,” said Collins, who will pursue his master’s degree in religious studies at the University of Hawai’i Mānoa next.
Madeline Cunningham, senior from Winston-Salem majoring in religious studies, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. Her favorite part of App State was the community of students, faculty and staff. About her plans after graduation, Cunningham said, “I hope to land a job at the university in some type of management or student affairs.”
Michelle Ellison, senior from Charlotte majoring in philosophy, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of my experience at App State has been getting to be a part of the community in the Department of Philosophy and Religion. All of the students are so fun and talented, and I've always felt welcomed. The professors are all exceedingly kind and encouraging and offer you so many ways to interact with the discipline, and it's because of that community and encouragement that I learned so much in my time as an undergraduate,” said Ellison, who plans to take a gap year and teach English abroad next.
Matthew Mork, senior from Concord majoring in philosophy, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. When asked about his favorite part of App State, Mork responded, “Professors' willingness to take ideas from their students and implement them in the classroom. This practice shows how much professors at App State are willing to get involved with their students.” In the future, Mork hopes to become a civil rights attorney.
Chloie Thomas, senior from Shelby majoring in religious studies, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. Thomas’ favorite parts of App State were the professors and her friends. When asked about her plans after graduation, Thomas replied, “Make music and do what I want!”
Kaitlyn Whisnant, senior from Charlotte double majoring in religious studies and child development, is a recipient of the Philosophy & Religious Studies Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of App State is the community. Throughout my last four years, I have been able to meet people who make App feel like home and I cannot wait to continue to pour into these relationships post graduation,” said Whisnant, who plans to complete a summer internship in the Boone area and then go on to either teach or work for her sorority.
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Department of Physics & Astronomy
Olivia Adams, senior from Raleigh double majoring in applied physics with a concentration in astronomy and english with a concentration in creative writing, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Senior Academic Recognition Award. When asked about her favorite part of App State, Adams responded, “Introductory Astronomy! One of the classes that really hooked me into physics.” Adams plans to pursue her master’s degree in an engineering-related field next.
Sydney Andrews, senior from Rocky Point majoring in applied physics with a concentration in astronomy, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Senior Academic Recognition Award. Andrews plans to attend graduate school in the future.
Thomas Batalia, senior from Winston-Salem majoring in physics, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Senior Academic Recognition Award. Batalia’s favorite part of App State was the faculty and staff in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. After graduation, Batalia plans to attend graduate school.
Dallas Davis, senior from Lowgap majoring in physics, received the J.W. Byrd Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part has been the community and working on research,” shared Davis, who will continue his education at App State as a graduate student pursuing his Master of Science degree in Engineering Physics with a concentration in systems and laboratory automation.
Collin Hernandez, senior from Fayetteville double majoring in physics and mathematics, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Senior Academic Recognition Award. “It is clear that the professors want you to succeed. They want to help you learn in class and to help you on your way to the next stage whether it is graduate school or career,” said Hernandez, who plans on pursuing a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics and becoming a professor and researcher.
Aidan Keaveney, senior from Durham double majoring in physics and mathematics, received the department’s Outstanding Senior Outreach Recognition Award. Keaveney’s favorite part of App State was the “eagerness on the part of faculty to listen to what I am interested in pursuing and help me pursue it, even and especially when those pursuits are non-traditional or difficult.” He continued, “For example, all of my professors and advisors have worked very hard to help me make sure I complete my graduation requirements and maintain my scholarship funding while substitute teaching physics at Watauga High School in my final semester. Some schools would simply say no way, it can't be done, but my departments and App State have eagerly helped me make it happen.” Keaveney will continue his education at App State as a graduate student pursuing his Master of Science degree in Engineering Physics.
Joshua McNeill, senior from Fleetwood majoring in applied physics, received the department’s Outstanding Senior Research Recognition Award. After graduation, McNeil plans to work in the aerospace industry.
Michaela Moon, senior from Pfafftown majoring in physics with a concentration in secondary education, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Physics Secondary Education Senior Recognition Award. “My favorite part of the department is how passionate they are about their field of research, and how committed all of the faculty is to the students,” said Moon, who plans to teach high school physics and math following graduation.
Annie Sylvester, senior from New Bern majoring in physics with a concentration in secondary education, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Physics Secondary Education Senior Recognition Award. “I have been fortunate to work with the incredible faculty in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. My favorite attribute of Appalachian and the Department of Physics and Astronomy is the intimate size without compromising the many opportunities offered to students of all interests and backgrounds.” Sylvester plans on pursuing her master’s degree in geophysics next.
Victoria Whidden, senior from Port Crane, New York majoring in applied physics, is a recipient of the department’s Outstanding Senior Academic Recognition Award. Whidden’s favorite part of App State was “the knowledge and connections I gained through my professors, as well as fellow students.” After graduation, Whidden hopes to take some time to travel before beginning a career in the engineering industry.
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Department of Psychology
Jacqueline Dozier, senior from Hendersonville majoring in psychology with a concentration in human services, received the department’s Distinguished Senior Award. “Coming to college here at App has been an experience that has reshaped my perspective of the world, and has been, thus far, the best time of my life. I have gained experience that has made me not only more knowledgeable but a better person. I am very grateful to all of the psychology faculty at Appalachian, but especially Dr. Twila Wingrove, who has guided and supported me throughout my time here,” said Dozier, who plans to move to Charlotte after graduation to work and prepare for graduate school. Eventually, she would like to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology.
Camden Hutchinson, senior from Huntersville majoring in psychology with a concentration in health studies, received the department’s Outstanding Senior Award. Hutchinson’s favorite part of App State was “the never ending sources of support from faculty, peers and other resources.” Following graduation, she will continue her education at App State pursuing her Psy.D.
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Department of Sociology
Maddy Flowers, senior from Wake Forest double majoring in sociology with a concentration in social inequalities and political science with a concentration in international and comparative politics, is a recipient of the Sociology Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite thing about the sociology department is the strong support system created by the faculty and students. My time in the department has reinforced my love for learning and has set me up for success in the future,” said Flowers, who plans to pursue employment in the nonprofit industry while considering graduate school options after graduation.
Gavrielle Jacobson, senior from Ventnor, New Jersey majoring in sociology, is a recipient of the Sociology Outstanding Senior Award. “My favorite part of App State has been the opportunity that it provides students with. There are so many ways to get involved, build your resume and make connections. It gives you the tools to learn about who you are as a learner, leader and person,” said Jaconson, who will pursue her M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs at the University of South Carolina next.
Jess Kreider, senior from Raleigh majoring in sociology of health and aging, is a recipient of the Sociology Outstanding Senior Award. When asked about her favorite part of App State, Kreider replied, “The faculty and friends I have made along the way. I also love Chapel Wilson.” Following graduation, Kreider will pursue a career working with older adults.
Jemiah Williams, senior from Thomasville majoring in sociology with a concentration in social inequalities, is a recipient of the Sociology Outstanding Senior Award. “One of my favorite parts about my department is the faculty. We have an amazing faculty in the Department of Sociology that really cares about the students and pushes them to be socially and culturally aware of the world,” said Williams, who plans to continue her education at App State as a graduate student in the clinical mental health counseling program.
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We congratulate these outstanding seniors and send them best wishes for the future. Additionally, we thank the graduating CAS Corps members - Emma Allen, Malikia Cherubala, Aidan Keaveney, Anna Lee, Kate Metzger, Meredith Sánchez-Sánchez, Jenna Ward and Kaitlyn Whisnant - for their service to the College.
The Spring 2023 CAS commencement ceremonies will take place Friday, May 12, 2023. The 1 p.m. ceremony will include the departments of English; History; Interdisciplinary Studies; Languages, Literatures & Cultures; Philosophy & Religion; Psychology & Sociology. The 5 p.m. ceremony will include the departments of Anthropology; Biology; Chemistry & Fermentation Sciences; Computer Science; Geography & Planning; Geological & Environmental Sciences; Government & Justice Studies; Mathematical Sciences and Physics & Astronomy. For more information, visit appstate.edu/commencement.
Are you graduating this semester? To learn more about alumni opportunities and update your information, visit alumni.appstate.edu.
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About the College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at Appalachian State University is home to 17 academic departments, two centers and one residential college. These units span the humanities and the social, mathematical and natural sciences. CAS aims to develop a distinctive identity built upon our university's strengths, traditions and unique location. The college’s values lie not only in service to the university and local community, but through inspiring, training, educating and sustaining the development of its students as global citizens. More than 6,400 student majors are enrolled in the college. As the college is also largely responsible for implementing App State’s general education curriculum, it is heavily involved in the education of all students at the university, including those pursuing majors in other colleges. Learn more at https://cas.appstate.edu.
By Lauren Andersen
May 5, 2023
BOONE, N.C.
The College of Arts & Sciences at Appalachian State University
The College of Arts & Sciences at Appalachian State University