BOONE, N.C. — On Friday, December 13, 2024, over 400 students representing 17 departments in Appalachian State University's College of Arts and Sciences will gather to walk across the stage during the Fall 2024 Commencement Ceremony at 1 p.m. in the Holmes Convocation Center.
See below to learn more about 18 of this year's graduating seniors and their plans for the future.
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Cathryn Adams, of Shallotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in psychology. Cathryn shared that her favorite memory at App State is leaving Sanford Hall after an evening class as the sun sets. "On clear nights, you can see the outlines of the mountains," explained Cathryn, who plans to teach in her hometown and publish her next book after graduation.
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Kenzie Bible, of Charlotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in child development. Kenzie shared that her favorite memory at App State is spending time with her friends on campus and her involvement with the Child Advocacy Club.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Kenzie recognized Rhonda Russell, senior lecturer in Reich College of Education's Department of Child Development, Literacy and Special Education. "She is a wonderful professor and truly cares about providing a positive and supportive learning experience!" wrote Kenzie, who plans to attend graduate school at App State next.
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Skyler Brianna, of Jacksonville, FL, is earning her bachelor's degree in both anthropology and theatre arts. When asked about her favorite memory at App State, Skyler responded, "I'm so lucky to say that I genuinely have a hard time picking just one—performing the play that I wrote for my undergraduate thesis is an upcoming highlight, though!" Following graduation, Skyler plans to travel and pursue a graduate degree.
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Hannah Brown, of Greensboro, is earning her bachelor's degree in political science with a concentration in American politics and a minor in communication. Hannah's favorite memory at App State is going to Washington, DC with the International Relations Association and meeting with various foreign embassy representatives.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Hannah recognized Dr. Renee Scherlen, professor of political science in the Department of Government and Justice Studies and faculty advisor for the International Relations Association. "Dr. Scherlen created a community within that club that I found a home in at App State. Even if she is not directly involved all the time, her availability for questions and consistency in helping me when problems arose has been the best thing about the teachers here at App," explained Brown. "Her teaching style allowed me to thrive in classes I was wary about, and I have grown a lot here since first joining the club and facilitating this relationship with her."
After graduation, Hannah will attend graduate school at App State, pursuing a master's degree in political science with a concentration in American government. She hopes to work as a journalist in Washington, DC in the future.
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Georgia Burgess, of Burlington, is earning her bachelor's degree in applied and public history and a minor in political science. Georgia shared that her favorite memory at App State is time spent in Alpha Psi Omega, the national theatre honor society. Following graduation, Georgia plans to pursue a graduate degree in historic preservation.
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Faith Crews, of Chapel Hill, is earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice and minors in both psychology and social work. Faith's favorite memory at App State was during the snowfall in January 2021. "Me and my friends were stuck in the Cottages, and we connected ropes to the back of a Subaru and got pulled around the entire Cottages while we were on our snowboards," she explained.
When asked about her plans after graduation, Faith shared, "I hope to move out West to enjoy a few years of working on a ski resort to live out one of my dreams, and then go into the desired field of criminal justice and social work to help individuals that are incarcerated with mental illness and substance abuse."
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Allie Dotson, of Asheville, is earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a concentration in international studies and minors in psychology, political science and American Sign Language. Allie shared that her favorite memory at App State is rushing the field at Kidd Brewer Stadium after App State's football team defeated Troy University in 2022. Following graduation, Allie plans to work as an intelligence analyst.
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Natalie Henn, of Greensboro, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology and minors in both studio art and American Sign Language. Natalie shared that her favorite memory at App State is playing football with her friends on Sanford Mall. After graduation, Natalie plans to pursue a graduate degree in social work.
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Jirah Montgomery, of Charlotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Jirah shared that her favorite memory at App State is commuting and watching the leaves change colors in the fall.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Jirah recognized Dr. Christopher Marier, assistant professor of criminal justice in the Department of Government and Justice Studies. She wrote about Dr. Marier's courses, "Each one was fun and educational while also giving a stark and unfiltered look at the real world. His classes encouraged me to stick to what I believe but also encouraged me to consider other points of views, especially when it came to the Criminal Justice System."
Jirah plans to work with victims as a victim/witness legal assistant at the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office following graduation.
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Luke Moore, of Trumbull, CT, is earning his bachelor's degree in actuarial science. When asked about his favorite memory at App State, Luke responded, "The day I met the folks at the Brantley Center."
He recognized three faculty members in the Walker College of Business' Department of Finance, Banking and Insurance for making a positive impact on his life: Dr. David Marlett, Dr. Austin Eggers and Wendy Deng. After graduation, Luke will begin a new job. "If I had to hope for one thing, I hope for a black lab and that it snows like crazy this year," he added.
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Émilie Newsome, of Charlotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services. Émilie shared that her favorite memory at App State is rushing the field at Kidd Brewer Stadium with her friends after App State's football team defeated East Carolina University.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Émilie recognized Sarah Hill '22, alumna of the biology master's program and former lecturer in the Department of Biology. "While this was a class I really struggled in, Sarah sat with me every week in office hours and helped me to understand the material. She and I became friends of sorts and she wrote me a letter of recommendation for graduate school!" shared Émilie.
Émilie plans to pursue a graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling next.
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Christina Palumbo, of Charlotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a minor in sociology. Her favorite memory at App State is attending football games.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Christina recognized Dr. Cathy Marcum, professor and chair of the Department of Government and Justice Studies. She shared, "Dr. Cathy Marcum has made a huge impact on my life. I have taken many classes with her, including a study abroad class, and she is the most caring and thoughtful professor at App State. She is always willing to sit and talk with me about life. When I run into her she asks me about things happening in my life and genuinely cares. She has written many reference letters for me and is always willing to lend a hand!"
After graduation, Christina will complete the police academy. "I hope to work as a patrol officer for a few years before transitioning to a sergeant or detective position," explained Christina.
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Krystina Phillips, of Moncure, is earning her bachelor's degree in veterinary technology. "Even though this is an online program, having the ability to connect with other students and instructors has been awesome. It is very interactive, even outside of the classroom, by holding activities to network with others and have fun!" shared Krystina about the veterinary technology program.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Krystina answered, "It's incredibly difficult to choose just one. Jennifer Serling [director of the veterinary technology program] and Rebecca Newman [assistant director of the veterinary technology program] have been amazing with their support throughout the program!"
Following graduation, Krystina plans to pursue a graduate degree to equip her with further knowledge and skills to provide quality care to patients.
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Lindsey Pleasant, of Raleigh, is earning her bachelor's degree in integrative biology and a minor in chemistry. Her favorite memory at App State is enjoying the snow during her first year living in the dorms.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Lindsey recognized Dr. Mary Kinkel, associate professor in the Department of Biology. "Dr. Kinkel, my PI, has made me the scientist I am today through her support and wisdom," wrote Lindsey, who plans to pursue a doctoral degree next.
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Elizabeth Sherwood, of Lenoir, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services. Elizabeth's favorite memory at App State is walking around campus during fall.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Elizabeth recognized Lynn Mosteller, senior lecturer and undergraduate advising director in the Department of Psychology. "Ms. Lynn Mosteller made it a point to ensure I was getting the classes and support I needed to succeed while at App! She sensed my nervousness and quickly eased my mind about my future classes and overall schedule," shared Elizabeth, who will pursue a graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling at Liberty University next.
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Mariana Solanilla, of Cornelius, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in leadership studies. "Having the opportunity to meet hardworking peers and inspiring faculty leaders in my program has been instrumental in shaping my foundation of professionalism and growth," shared Mariana. "Any accomplishments I’ve achieved are a direct result of the dedicated individuals who invest their time and energy into providing students with a quality education. Their unwavering support and commitment have truly made a lasting impact on my personal and professional development."
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Mariana recognized Dr. Shawn Bergman, professor in the Department of Psychology. "Through his guidance, I’ve grown both professionally and as a leader, taking on roles such as Recruitment Coordinator for Human Resources (HR) Science and various executive positions. Dr. Bergman’s dedication to my development has empowered me to reach beyond my comfort zone, equipping me with the skills and confidence to pursue my career aspirations and grow as an individual," she wrote.
After graduating, Mariana plans to leverage her background in industrial-organizational psychology and leadership studies to launch a career in HR, particularly in talent development and organizational wellness. "While I am considering opportunities in corporate HR roles, I am also passionate long term about starting my own bilingual HR wellness coaching business. My goal is to help organizations cultivate positive, inclusive work environments while empowering individuals to reach their full potential," shared Mariana. "Living in Charlotte, I’m excited about the opportunities for growth in this vibrant city, where I can continue to develop both professionally and personally."
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Rylee Souders, of Charlotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in health studies and a minor in public health. When asked about her favorite memory at App State, Rylee responded, "I can't choose just one memory at Appalachian State since I have too many favorites, but some of my favorite memories have been with my friends either exploring on the parkway or our many study dates at Espresso News."
Rylee recognized Dr. Mark Zrull, professor and assistant chair in the Department of Psychology, as a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life. "In my freshman year at App, I was a member of the Residential Learning Community Brain Matters. Dr. Zrull became a quick mentor for me as he was the advisor for this community. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work with him in his research, the Premier Undergraduate Journal of Neuroscience and as a student in his classes. This connection has greatly influenced my goals and what I want to pursue in my academic career," wrote Rylee, who is also a member of the CAS Corps.
After graduation, Rylee plans to attend graduate school for clinical psychology. She shared, "I hope to pursue a concentration in either health, trauma or neuropsychology."
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Trista Strong, of Fletcher, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in sociology. Trista shared that her favorite memory at App State was attending events on Sanford Mall with her friends during her freshman year.
When asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, Trista recognized Dr. Mark Zrull, professor and assistant chair in the Department of Psychology. "Dr. Zrull has been a constant influence on my ambitions and ideas about my education. Through his seminars, he continually challenged my thinking on various psychology topics. Even before I attended App State, Dr. Zrull inspired me to declare psychology as my major during orientation, as I had initially planned to start as undecided," explained Trista, who will pursue a graduate degree in social work next year.
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The College of Arts and Sciences congratulates the Class of 2024. Are you graduating this semester? To learn more about alumni opportunities and update your contact 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 locations. 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 6,800 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 cas.appstate.edu.
Compiled by Lauren Gibbs
December 5, 2024
BOONE, N.C.
The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian State University
The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian State University