BOONE, N.C. — On Friday, December 15, 2023, nearly 400 students representing 16 departments in the Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences will gather to walk across the stage during the Fall 2023 Commencement Ceremony at 9 a.m. in the Holmes Convocation Center.
See below to learn more about 37 of this year's candidates and their plans for the future.
Katie Adams, of Randleman, is earning her bachelor's degree in English, secondary education. "My favorite memory at Appalachian State is getting to be in class with my best friend during freshman seminar. I got the chance to meet one of the best people in the whole world. I have truly created a lifelong friendship that will stretch far past my time at Appalachian," shared Adams. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Adams wrote, "I have had the experience to learn under the most profound professors. One who has made the biggest impact on my success is Dr. Clarice Moran. No matter the content area she is brilliant. I am so lucky to have had her for two courses and gotten to hear the amazing tips and tricks she has for future educators." After graduation, Adams will teach ninth-grade English. "I will be putting my knowledge and experience in high school classrooms to great use when I step into the role as an educator," she added.
Mariana Angeles Lemus, of Hickory, is earning her bachelor's degree in political science with a concentration in pre-professional legal studies and minors in both criminal justice and experiential, integrative learning. She shared that one of her favorite memories at Appalachian was serving as an Appol Corps Orientation Leader. "It was a rewarding experience to be able to share all of the amazing programs App State has to offer and lend support to new students," explained Angeles Lemus, who hopes to find a job in the government sector and attend law school in the future.
Yel Butung, of Charlotte, is earning her bachelor's degree in political science with a concentration in pre-professional legal studies and a minor in criminal justice. Her favorite memory at Appalachian is attending football games. After graduation, Butung hopes to find a job.
Josh Cole, of Apex, is earning his bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in Japanese. He shared that his favorite memory at Appalachian was participating in the homecoming parade during his freshman year. "I had never done anything like that before and it was so surreal, but ended up being one of the best nights I ever had," wrote Cole, who hopes to attend graduate school for counseling psychology and become a mental health counselor in the future.
Sadie Collett, of Asheville, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in health studies. Her favorite memory at Appalachian is attending her first football game. When asked what she plans to do after graduation, Collett wrote, "Start working, and get out into the world!"
Alec Condrey, of Marion, is earning his bachelor's degree in history, secondary education. His favorite memory at Appalachian is serving as manager of the men's basketball team. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on his life, Condrey recognized Jenny Morris. Condrey plans to teach and coach basketball after graduation.
Lauren Corn, of McDowell County, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in business and a minor in studio art. She shared that her favorite memory at Appalachian was living in Coltrane Hall. "There, my whole floor was like family and I really enjoyed being on campus," wrote Corn. Corn recognized Jeri Allison as a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life, describing her as a "great teacher, great friend, and great person overall." After graduation, Corn plans to begin a job in real estate.
Anna Duncan, of Forest City, is earning her bachelor's degree in chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry and a minor in biology. When asked about her favorite memory at Appalachian, Duncan responded, "The experiences I've gained in the laboratory and the community built in the chemistry department!" She recognized Dr. Megen Culpepper as a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life. "She has guided me personally and professionally. She inspires me to stand up for myself and to pursue what I love," said Duncan. Following graduation, Duncan hopes to find a job in the chemistry field and eventually pursue a graduate degree in microbiology or biochemistry.
Laken Ellis, of West Jefferson, is earning her bachelor's degree in English, secondary education. "My favorite memory at App was taking Dr. Moran’s Principles of Language class with my fellow classmates. I’ve also loved all of the memories I’ve made as a student teacher for App!" she shared. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Ellis recognized Dr. Clarice Moran. "Her support and attention to all students shows her commitment to mentoring future teachers! All students deserve a professor as amazing as Dr. Moran," wrote Ellis.
Jacqui Foronda, of St. Pete Beach, Florida, is earning her bachelor's degree in environmental science with a concentration in life science and a minor in geology. Her favorite memory at Appalachian is conducting research in Mongolia with Dr. Sarah Carmichael, professor in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences. "Dr. Carmichael, she has always supported me and has pushed me in a positive way to further my academic career as a student here at App and build connections beyond Boone as well," shared Foronda when asked about a faculty member who made a positive impact on her life. After graduation, Foronda plans to take a break and then pursue graduate school.
Bridget Gallagher, of Raleigh, is earning her bachelor's degree in anthropology. "My all-time favorite memory was when I served as president of the Anthropology Club and ran archaeological lab and was able to teach younger students how to process artifacts," she shared. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Gallagher recognized Dr. Krista Lewis, chair of the Department of Anthropology. "She sent me on a path of research that will help me when I begin graduate school at Appalachian. She also heard me, made me feel seen and respected, and welcomed me back to the department with open arms," explained Gallagher, who will pursue a master's degree in history at Appalachian with the goal of becoming a professor in the future. "I have been so inspired by the professors in the anthropology department, and how they have a way of teaching from a very human level," wrote Gallagher.
Rowaida Hamdan, of Greensboro, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in health studies and a minor in public health. "Cheering on our football team at home games is a memory I will always cherish — there is no game day spirit like ours here at Appalachian!" wrote Hamdan. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Hamdan responded, "Dr. [Mark] Zrull in the psychology department taught one of my favorite undergraduate seminars: My capstone based on neuroscience. His passion for psychology/neuroscience shows in his optimistic teaching style!" Hamdan will pursue a doctoral degree in biomedical sciences beginning in January.
Caroline Jenkins, of Vale, is earning her bachelor's degree in English, secondary education. Jenkins shared that her favorite memories at Appalachian include attending football games and dancing with friends in the Momentum Dance Club. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Jenkins responded, "Dr. [Elaine] O'Quinn, my adolescent literature professor and concentration supervisor for student teaching, has opened my eyes to new and innovative ways to teach." Jenkins plans to teach high school English following graduation.
Leah Joyce, of Star, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services. She shared that her favorite memories at Appalachian include having picnics on the parkway with friends and attending football games. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Joyce answered, "Lynn Mosteller is always so helpful and kind!" Joyce plans to become a school counselor after graduation.
Jordan Kelley, of Mickleton, New Jersey, is earning her bachelor's degrees in both sociology and psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in French and Francophone studies. "My favorite memory at App is probably planning and executing my first Valentine's Dance in February 2022 as president of the club, Best Buddies. I dreamt up the concept of this dance and was able to bring it to life beautifully alongside one of my good friends who happened to be the secretary of the club as well! It was one of the proudest, most fun nights of my college experience, and I am happy that the Valentine's Dance tradition has continued on. The club and the dance is a wonderful place to celebrate inclusivity, and it has given me some of the best friendships," said Kelley. When asked about a faculty or staff member that made a positive impact on her life, Kelley shared her experience in Dr. Ellen Lamont's course, The Sociological Perspective. "It was one of the most enriching classes. We had such amazing discussion, and honestly, it's why I continued to be so passionate about sociology and follow through with my initial major choices! Dr. Lamont really got me interested in the subject with the way she taught, the discussions we had, and the assignments she had us do. It was a great class and a great way to start off my college experience," explained Kelley, who plans to attend graduate school, obtain her teaching license, and become a high school special educator in the future.
Addison Kocell, of Waxhaw, is earning her bachelor's degree in sociology with a concentration in criminology, deviance and law and a minor in psychology. She shared that her favorite part of Appalachian was her involvement in student organizations. "I've been able to complete mock trials, work for orientation, and be a founding member of a pre-law fraternity and I have met so many amazing people along the way!" said Kocell. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Kocell responded, "Dr. [Kelly] Thames was an influential professor during my time at Appalachian. She taught many classes, had a very accessible teaching style, and has laid my foundational knowledge regarding the field of criminology. Every single class left me wanting to learn more." Kocell plans to attend law school next Fall.
Ally Lawing, of Stanley, is earning her bachelor's degree in cell and molecular biology and a minor in chemistry. She shared that her favorite memory at Appalachian is taking the microbiology labs in the Department of Biology. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Lawing recognized Jen McGuinn. "She has encouraged and supported me throughout my journey and always makes time to listen to me and other students and staff on campus. Her positive attitude towards me and the biology department keeps us close as a community and provides an amazing environment for others to succeed. Mrs. McGuinn is an excellent example of the mission of the biology department through her dedication, hard work, and kindness," said Lawing, who plans to apply her biology expertise to a career in biomedical research and development.
Gaby Leon, of Clayton, is earning her bachelor's degree in both Spanish and communications with a concentration in advertising. Her favorite memory at Appalachian is studying abroad in Spain during Summer 2022. Leon explained, "Not only did I utilize my Spanish-speaking skills, but I was in awe of how different life was over there. The culture and nightlife were resembled beautifully and I am forever grateful to have created life-long memories with the group I went with." When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Leon recognized Dr. Benito del Pliego. "I had the pleasure of having him as my professor during my sophomore and junior year. While I did not know where or how I wanted to direct my abilities in my career choices, I very much felt supported by having learned from him. As I also had him as my instructor for the trip to Spain, his confidence and courage led me to realize I had the potential to become an interpreter in the future," said Leon, who hopes to apply her Spanish skills to a future career. Leon shared that she is currently searching for a role relating to music festivals: "I believe that festivals allow oneself to find their true selves, and I have grown tremendously each time by attending them and it’s an amazing experience overall."
Yancey McMurry, of Fallston, is earning his bachelor's degree in history with a minor in German. He shared that his favorite memory at Appalachian is "singing way too loud with my roommate at 11 p.m. at night in the dorms." When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on his life, McMurry answered, "Dr. Beverly Moser and Dr. Alexandra Sterling-Hellenbrand have been major influences on my life. They have driven me to study German and be extremely passionate about what I do going forward. Even though Dr. Moser is no longer with the University, I hope to still keep in touch with her and emulate her in my life." After graduation, McMurry hopes to continue his German studies and apply his skills to a position in government or higher education.
Asa Michalka, of Asheville, is earning his bachelor's degree in environmental science with a minor in geology. When asked about his favorite memory at Appalachian, Michalka wrote, "I have had a blast exploring the hiking trails and rock climbing crags in the Boone and Linville area." Michalka hopes to earn a master's degree and work for a private environmental consulting firm in the future.
Eve Montgomery, of Mooresville, is earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a minor in sociology. Montgomery's favorite memory at Appalachian is her first week as a resident assistant. "I met so many people and had so much fun during training," added Montgomery, who will be joining the Winston-Salem Police Department after graduation.
Chloe Nedved, of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, is earning her bachelor's degree in applied and public history and a minor in German. "My favorite memory is going paddle boarding with some friends at Price Lake to see the sunrise," shared Nedved, who hopes to attend graduate school and earn a master's degree in public history in the future.
Audrey Nidiffer, of Newland, is earning her bachelor's degree in English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in Appalachian studies. When asked about her favorite memory at Appalachian, Nidiffer answered, "Sitting with faculty and peers at Boone Saloon before one of Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writers Series readings. It was the first time I felt a part of a creative and academic community. By being included by faculty, I felt seen and that as a student my voice mattered. To share this moment with my peers was to see the potential of where our education and sense of community could take us." Nidiffer recognized Matthew Wimberley as a faculty member who has made a positive impact on her life. "His guidance not only helped me discover who I was as a poet but also who I was as an individual. He continually pushed my poems further asking me to expand images to better tell my story. He helped me discover a fire that was always there, and then gave me the fuel to nurture the flame," wrote Nidiffer, who will pursue her master's degree in literary studies at Appalachian beginning in the Spring. "From there, I hope to begin teaching English at the college level to give back to the next generation what has been given to me by professors, the gift of learning. I also hope to continue my work as a poet and hope my work contributes to the ongoing conversation about what it means to be from Appalachia," she added.
Kaia Ohle, of Wake Forest, is earning her bachelor's degree in cell and molecular biology and a minor in chemistry. Ohle shared that her favorite memory at Appalachian is meeting her closest friends in Dr. Claudia Cartaya-Marin's Organic Chemistry II course. In the future, Ohle plans to attend dental or medical school.
Eden Parker, of Efland, is earning her bachelor's degree in chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry and a minor in biology. Parker shared that their favorite memory at Appalachian is joining an undergraduate research group. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Parker recognized Dr. Nicholas Shaw. Parker plans to work in the chemical manufacturing industry following graduation.
Brooke Reutinger, of Clemmons, is earning her bachelor's degree in ecology, evolution and environmental biology and a minor in sustainable development. "My favorite memory at Appalachian State was taking the biology department's Local Flora course. I really enjoyed getting to spend the summer in Boone going on hikes and learning the names of all the plants I see on the parkway," shared Reutinger. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Reutinger answered, "Dr. Jennifer Geib gave me the opportunity to get involved in undergraduate research which taught me many valuable skills and prepared me for graduate school and a career after graduation." Reutinger will pursue her master's degree in data science and business analytics at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte next.
Brenda Rodriguez-Vargas, of Cashiers, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in child development. She shared that her favorite memory at Appalachian is "gaining new friendships and experiences. Amongst that, being a first generation student to graduate college in my family." After graduation, Rodriguez-Vargas will pursue her master's degree with the goal of working in schools before eventually pursuing her doctoral degree and opening up her own practice.
Kelli Rush, of Naples, Florida, is earning her bachelor's degree in English with a concentration in professional writing and a minor in philosophy. Rush's favorite memory at Appalachian is watching football games on the hill at Kidd Brewer Stadium. Rush recognized Dr. Melissa Stone and Dr. Savannah Paige Murray as faculty members who made a positive impact on her life, describing them as "amazing professors who really care about their students outside of academia." In the future, Rush hopes to become a lawyer.
JC Spampinato, of Raleigh, is earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a concentration in international studies and a minor in Mandarin. "My favorite memory at App State is when it snowed about 7 inches overnight and canceled classes. I had never seen that much snow before, and my roommate and I got bundled up and went sledding. Seeing everyone outside on campus building snowmen, throwing snowballs, and sledding was so exciting and fun. I loved seeing everyone outside having a blast like we were kids again," she shared. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Spampinato replied, "Dr. [Jeff] Holcomb was the person who convinced me to come to App State in this major and concentration and has helped me immensely throughout my time here. He advised me on my honors thesis and has been a huge source of support and guidance." Spampinato hopes to find a job relating to intelligence and security after graduation.
Steven Stricklin, of Charlotte, is earning his bachelor's degree in political science with a concentration in pre-professional legal studies and a minor in sociology. "My favorite memory would have to be beating Texas A&M!" shared Stricklin. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on his life, Stricklin replied, "I would have to shout out Judge [Henry] Wansker and Dr. [Ellen] Key! They helped me believe in myself and motivated me to achieve my dream of going to law school and becoming an attorney. They were great professors and mentors, and I would highly recommend taking their classes to anyone." In January, Stricklin plans to obtain his paralegal certification and then work in the industry before eventually attending law school.
Jackson Swicegood, of Statesville, is earning his bachelor's degree in actuarial science with a minor in statistics. He shared that his favorite memory at Appalachian is the win against Coastal Carolina in 2021. After graduation, Swicegood plans to pursue a master's degree at North Carolina State University's Institute for Advanced Analytics.
Lindsey Toro, is earning her bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in child development. She shared that her favorite memory at Appalachian is attending the free farmer's market on Sanford Mall and making fun dishes in her dorm with the items she picked up. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on his life, Toro responded, "Lynn Mosteller was the very first faculty member I met when I started at App. She has been a mentor to me and someone I can talk about anything with. I am also one of her peer advisors and I have been able to grow so much from that experience." Toro hopes to attend graduate school and become a licensed child and adolescent therapist in the future.
Justin Turner, of Denver, is earning his bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a concentration in international studies. "I have loved being front row at every single sporting event I could be at for App. If you ask some of the players, they’ll know me as'“crazy cone guy.' If you ask some other students and fans, they’ll say 'crazy cone guy.' If you ask the people I typically sat with, they’ll say 'crazy cone guy.' I’m the crazy guy with the cone that made sure every team knew App had the best fans in the nation," shared Turner, who hopes to work for the national parks as a law enforcement officer in the future.
Lily Weeks, of Wake Forest, is earning her bachelor's degree in English with a minor in literary studies. Her favorite memory at Appalachian is visiting New York City with the Musical Theater Club. When asked what she hopes to do after graduation, Weeks replied, "I hope to read a lot of books."
Ryan Whitfield, of White Cross, is earning his bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in natural science and minors in both chemistry and biology. His favorite memory at Appalachian is attending a football tailgate with a giant low-country seafood boil. "I haven't been able to stop thinking about those shrimp or scallops ever since," said Whitfield. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on his life, Whitfield responded, "I took Psychopathology with Dr. Hannah Holmes. During office hours, she kindly took the time to discuss career options with me in-depth and helped guide me to an internship with the App State Psychology Clinic that was very helpful in learning about the day-to-day realities of clinical practice!" Whitfield has been accepted to medical school beginning in Fall 2024. "After completing my M.D., I hope to match to a psychiatry residency and become a psychiatrist!" shared Whitfield.
Charles Wright, of Plano, Texas, is earning his bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in human services and a minor in sociology. His favorite memory at Appalachian is running the flag onto the field during the Heroes Day football game in 2022. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on his life, Wright recognized Dr. Cameron Lippard, chair of the Department of Sociology. "He has helped me with creating a new line of study after being turned down twice. He has been a great friend and someone I can depend on for truthful advice," added Wright. Wright, a veteran, shared that he hopes to help other veterans after graduation.
Riley Ziegler, of Palm Beach Shores, Florida, is earning her bachelor's degree in applied and public history and a minor in anthropology. "My favorite memory at Appalachian State was probably experiencing my first real 'snow day' in 2022. Growing up in Florida meant that any snow I saw, my family deliberately had to travel for. In January of 2022, Boone received so much snow that classes were canceled for nearly four days. My roommates and I took advantage of the first day to go out and play in the snow! We built snowmen, went sledding, and then made the long hike back up to App Heights where we got to enjoy warm drinks together. It's a very fond memory for me," shared Ziegler. When asked about a faculty or staff member who made a positive impact on her life, Ziegler recognized Amy Hudnall. "Ms. Hudnall did her best to help guide me through my mandatory courses. She did her job so well that I'm now graduating a semester early. Throughout my time at App, she was constantly there to answer any and all questions I had, as well as push me in the right direction for classes and internships," explained Ziegler, who hopes to pursue a master's degree in public history in the future. "In the meantime, I plan to gain experience in my field through work or (hopefully) interning with museums!" she added.
The College of Arts and Sciences congratulates the Class of 2023. Graduates, keep in touch! Visit alumni.appstate.edu to learn about alumni opportunities and update your contact information.
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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.
Compiled by Lauren Andersen
December 8, 2023
BOONE, N.C.
Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences
Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences