BOONE, N.C. — This semester, over 40 new full-time faculty members joined the Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences. Keep reading to learn more about 34 of them.
Department of Anthropology
Elliot Greiner, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.A. in Anthropology from the University of Michigan
B.S. in Biological Anthropology from George Washington University
Research and Teaching Interests
Human Evolution, Paleoecology
Why Appalachian State?
“It has a great Anthropology department.”
Department of Biology
Noah Arnold-Carter ’22
Lecturer
Education
M.S. in Microbiology from the University of Tennessee Knoxville
B.S. in Biology (Cellular/Molecular Biology) from App State
B.S. in Chemistry (Biochemistry) from App State
Research and Teaching Interests
Microbiology, Human Microbiology
Why Appalachian State?
“I was drawn to this opportunity because of my passion for teaching combined with the experience of completing these labs as a former student. The professors I had for lectures and labs in biology at App State inspired me to pursue this opportunity and provide similar positive experiences for current students. I am eager to continue my career in the community I have learned to love over the years during my undergraduate education.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Awards: Teaching Excellence Award (University of Tennessee Knoxville Department of Microbiology), Excellence in Organic Chemistry Award and A.R. Smith Chemistry Memorial Scholarship Endowment Recipient (App State Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences)
Hobbies: Crocheting, Hiking, Tennis
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Andy Davidson, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Integrative Life Sciences from Virginia Commonwealth University
M.S. in Biological Sciences from Florida Atlantic University
B.S. in Biological Sciences from Florida State University
Research and Teaching Interests
“I am a quantitative community ecologist, and my research generally explores predator-prey interactions in freshwater systems with an eye towards climate change. I currently teach Zoology and Ecology and their respective labs.”
Why Appalachian State?
“App State has a fantastic and friendly Biology department, and the surrounding area is a gorgeous biodiversity hotspot with plenty of opportunities for both recreation and research. As an ecologist, I can't ask for much more than that!”
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Jacob Hopkins, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Kansas
B.S. in Microbiology from Indiana University
Research and Teaching Interests
Soil Ecology, Biostatistics
Why Appalachian State?
“App State offered excellent opportunities to do meaningful research and mentor excellent students.”
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Ally Lawing ’23 ’25
Lecturer
Education
M.S. and B.S. in Biology (Cellular/Molecular Biology) from App State
Research and Teaching Interests
Cellular Biology and Genetics Laboratory Courses
Why Appalachian State?
“App State has provided me with so many opportunities to succeed and strengthen my path in teaching and research. The sense of community allows every individual to have a safe and inclusive learning environment. The relationships and connections I have built over the years have made such a lasting impact on my life and have shaped me into who I am today.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“This will be my second semester teaching as a lecturer, and I aspire to instill a passion for science and research every time I am in the lab. When I'm not in the laboratory, I enjoy learning about and collecting various houseplants to create my own personal greenhouse!”
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Subhash Tripathi, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. from the University of Turku
M.S. in Biochemistry from Bundelkhand University
M.Tech. from the Indian Institute of Technology
B.S. in Biology from CSJM University
Research and Teaching Interests
“My research focuses on molecular immunology, T-cell biology, and functional genomics, with an emphasis on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern human T-helper and regulatory T-cell differentiation and function. My teaching interests lie in educating students on courses such as Foundational and Specialized Immunology, Functional Genomics and Systems Biology, and Core Molecular and Cellular, along with lab courses including Immunology and Immunotechniques and Functional Genomics Lab and CRISPR Technology Lab.”
Why Appalachian State?
“Appalachian State University offers a unique combination of institutional strengths, research infrastructure, and teaching impact.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Among his many awards, accomplishments, and service activities, Tripathi serves as an associate editor of Cancers, Frontiers in Immunology, and Frontiers in Oncology and on the editorial boards of the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Immunology and Hail Journal of Health Sciences.
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Abby VonBargen ’20 ’22
Lecturer
Education
M.S. in Biology (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology) from App State
B.S. in Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry) from App State
Research and Teaching Interests
Biology in Society
Why Appalachian State?
“Because Boone!”
Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences
Prem Chanda, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Chemistry from Purdue University
M.S. in Chemistry from Western Illinois University
B.S. in Chemistry from Tribhuvan University
Research and Teaching Interests
Teaching: Organic and Medicinal Chemistry
Research: Stereoselective Organic Synthesis, Boron Reagents, Aldol Reactions, Aromatase Inhibitors for Anticancer Drug Development
Why Appalachian State?
“An educator’s strong commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service reflects and advances Appalachian State University’s core values, mission, and vision.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Our research is focused on the development of synthetic methodologies aimed at achieving high diastereo- and enantiomeric purity in organic molecules. We are particularly interested in leveraging these advanced techniques for the stereoselective synthesis of small, bioactive compounds with potential applications in medicinal chemistry.”
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Sri Ghimire, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Purdue University
Research and Teaching Interests
General and Inorganic Chemistry
Why Appalachian State?
“Great school for undergraduate students, very helpful working environment, nice geography, and beautiful campus.”
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Reagan Greene, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from Vanderbilt University
M.P.H. in Epidemiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham
B.S. in Chemistry from North Carolina State University
Research and Teaching Interests
Biochemistry, General Chemistry, Chemistry of Life
Why Appalachian State?
“These mountains are home to me, and I value Appalachian State’s strong commitment to serving the region through education, innovation, and student development. I’m especially drawn to the university’s emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking science education. I look forward to joining a faculty engaged in meaningful research at an institution that values sustainability, scientific progress, and preparing students to address the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.”
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Nepali Pothupitiya, Ph.D.
Teaching Associate Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Chemistry from Bowling Green State University
M.S. in Environmental Management from Victoria University
B.S. in Chemistry and Biological Sciences from University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Research and Teaching Interests
Organic Chemistry
Why Appalachian State?
“I was here at App State from 2010 to 2015 and am rejoining this year. App State has always felt like home to me.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“My professional journey in education has taken me across different institutions and countries, providing me with a broad and diverse perspective on teaching, scholarship, and service. I have worked in different places around the globe and have been exposed to a variety of curricula, including those of the UK, Australia, Europe, and the USA.
Before rejoining Appalachian State University, I worked as a Science Lecturer at The Bedford College Group University Center, the UK, where I taught a wide range of science courses designed to support students in their progression to higher education. Before joining Bedford, I served as a Collegiate Professor at University Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), teaching Chemistry and Natural Science courses to U.S. military members serving in Germany, Italy, and the UK. UMGC provides and supports educational programs and services for U.S. forces overseas. This was a particularly rewarding experience, as I had the privilege of serving my country by contributing to the educational development of military personnel and helping transform lives through education.
Prior to UMGC, I worked at Loyola University, App State, McPherson College, and Bowling Green State University gaining experience across different higher education settings. At App State, I worked as a Lecturer and Organic Chemistry Laboratory Coordinator, teaching Organic and General Chemistry courses and directing all Organic Chemistry laboratory operations, facility maintenance, and course administration.
I’m bringing my diverse international experience back to App State, where I hope to combine my interdisciplinary interests with my passion for teaching, learning, and making a meaningful and positive impact on the broader community.”
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Elliot Taffet, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Chemistry from Princeton University
B.A. in Chemistry from Columbia University
Research and Teaching Interests
General and Computational Chemistry
Why Appalachian State?
“App State is the most beautiful campus I have ever seen, nestled in a thriving area with a gorgeous backdrop. The support that new faculty get is outstanding, and the facilities are magnificent.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I previously studied in Mons, Belgium, as part of the Belgian American Educational Foundation fellowship I received as a graduate student. I aspire to take on a leadership role at App State someday, and I am an avid tennis player who is quite impressed with the centrally located tennis courts on campus!”
Department of English
Anna Bills, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.A. in English from Louisiana State University
M.A. in English from Louisiana State University
B.A. in English from Mississippi State University
B.A. in Philosophy from Mississippi State University
Research and Teaching Interests
20th/21st Century American Literature, Critical Animal Studies, Ecocriticism and Environmental Humanities, the Gothic, U.S. Southern Studies
Why Appalachian State?
“I chose App State because I admired the emphasis placed on sustainability and environmental literacy across several of its departments and disciplines. It's my hope that I'll be able to be a part of this endeavor as well.”
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Chelsea Ensley, Ph.D. ’16
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Composition from the University of Cincinnati
M.A. in Appalachian Studies from App State
M.A. in English from Western Carolina University
B.A. in English from the University of North Carolina Asheville
Research and Teaching Interests
“My research is focused on Appalachian students in the writing classroom and how these students use their cultural values and knowledge to learn, write, and build relationships with their teachers.”
Why Appalachian State?
“I was drawn to App State because of the strong sense of community and the beautiful mountains.”
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Ethan Mannon, Ph.D.
Teaching Associate Professor
Education
Ph.D., and M.A. in English from Penn State
B.A. in English from Virginia Tech
Research and Teaching Interests
Literature and Environment, American Literature
Why Appalachian State?
“Opportunity to teach in my areas of expertise more frequently.”
Department of Geography and Planning
Garret Zastoupil, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Human Ecology (Civil Society and Community Research) from the University of Wisconsin–Madison
M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of Connecticut
B.S.B. in Public and Nonprofit Management from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Research and Teaching Interests
Community Economic and Rural Development, Environmental Planning, Participatory Processes
Why Appalachian State?
“App State stood out for its commitment to place, a department culture built on genuine collegiality, dedication to sustainability, and focus on student success.”
Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences (GES)
Micki Recchuiti, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Marine Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from North Carolina State University
M.S. in Earth and Planetary Science from the University of Tennessee Knoxville
B.S. in Anthropology from Western Carolina University
B.S. in Geology from Western Carolina University
Research and Teaching Interests
Planetary Volcanology, Geology
Why Appalachian State?
“There's no better geology, and GES is one of the strongest programs on the East Coast.”
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Joan Smyth
Lecturer
Education
B.S. in Hydrogeology from Northern Arizona University
Research and Teaching Interests
Hydrogeology
Why Appalachian State?
“App has an amazing Geological and Environmental Sciences department, and I wanted to share my experience as a consultant with students just entering the field. After being an adjunct here for three years, I'm very excited to be part of the full-time staff.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“After spending most of my career as a consulting hydrogeologist, I am proud to have established the student chapter of the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists here at App, and love giving students the opportunity to network with professionals.”
Department of Government and Justice Studies (GJS)
Diana Falco, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Criminology from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania
M.S. in Criminal Justice Administration from Niagara University
B.A. in Political Science and Criminology and Criminal Justice from Niagara University
Research and Teaching Interests
Punitiveness, Wrongful Convictions, Public Opinion on Crime/Justice, Criminal Justice Education, Study Abroad
Why Appalachian State?
“The students, faculty, and staff at App State are all welcoming, collegial, and supportive, and I look forward to teaching and mentoring students and collaborating with faculty colleagues.”
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Wayne Pitts, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.A. in Sociology from the University of New Mexico
B.A. in Anthropology and Sociology from Western Carolina University
Research and Teaching Interests
Policing, International Criminal Justice, Immigration, Crisis Intervention, Latin America
Why Appalachian State?
“I’m especially energized by App State’s strong focus on teaching and the opportunity to contribute to a community that values meaningful, student-centered education. I’m thrilled to be at App State because it feels like a full-circle experience — coming back home to the place where I grew up.”
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Stephanie Schmitt, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Iowa
B.S. in Political Science from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Research and Teaching Interests
Race and Ethnicity Politics, Elections, Voting Behavior
Why Appalachian State?
“I chose App State because the GJS faculty and staff were very welcoming during my interview process. The university and college offer support to new professors, both in teaching and research. Also, I am excited to live in Boone and explore surrounding areas.”
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Scott Teague, Ed.D. ’03
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Liberty University
Ed.S. in Education from Liberty University
M.A. in Political Science and Justice Studies from App State
B.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Research and Teaching Interests
Policing, Criminal Investigations, Supervision and Leadership, Terrorism and Emergency Management, Organized Crime
Why Appalachian State?
“As a proud graduate of Appalachian State University, I am honored to return to my alma mater as a professor. Returning to App is a meaningful full-circle moment, allowing me to give back to the university that played such an important role in my personal and professional journey. I look forward to mentoring and preparing our criminal justice students to grow into knowledgeable and effective officers.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Teague shared that he joined the Department of Government and Justice Studies in 2026 after retiring from a distinguished 29-year career in law enforcement. Throughout his career, he served with two police departments and one sheriff's office, gaining extensive experience in patrol operations, criminal investigations, narcotics enforcement, Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) operations, community policing, and administration. Teague holds Advanced Professional Certifications from both the North Carolina Sheriffs' Education and Training Standards Commission and the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. These Advanced Certificates represent the highest level of law enforcement certification in North Carolina and are awarded based on a combination of higher education, professional training, and career experience.
A dedicated educator since 2002, Teague has taught both continuing education and curriculum courses at multiple community colleges and universities. His passion for teaching is complemented by extensive real-world experience, providing students with practical insight into the criminal justice profession.
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Michael Thompson, Ed.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University
M.A. in Administration from Northern Arizona University
M.Ed. in Counseling and Human Relations from Northern Arizona University
B.S. in Career and Technical Education from Northern Arizona University
Research and Teaching Interests
Justice Studies, Policing, Police Administration
Why Appalachian State?
“After retirement from 36 years of policing, I moved to NC and fell in love with the area. I knew immediately I wanted to work at App State because I love teaching and I believe in the mission of the University. I am very thankful for this opportunity.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Family is everything to me, which includes my two dogs. I enjoy projects around the house and being outdoors. I have lived here two years now and continue to explore the region and love it.”
Department of History
Frances Bell, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.A. from William & Mary
M.A. (Hons) from the University of Glasgow
Research and Teaching Interests
African American History, Atlantic World History, History of the Age of Revolutions
Why Appalachian State?
“Beautiful location and great people!”
Department of Interdisciplinary Studies
Rachel Trusty, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.A. in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from the University of Kansas
M.F.A. in Studio Art from Lesley University
B.A. in Art Education and Sculpture from the University of Central Arkansas
Research and Teaching Interests
Sexuality and Gender in the U.S., Visual Culture and Contemporary Art in the U.S.
Why Appalachian State?
“I love the Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies (GWS) program at App State. My previous interactions with them were super positive. I am excited about the opportunities within GWS to grow my teaching and research.”
Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
Moeno Hashiguchi
Lecturer
Education
M.A. in Professional Japanese Language Teaching from Akita International University
B.A. in Global Studies from Akita International University
Research and Teaching Interests
Japanese Language, Japanese Pedagogy, Language Advising, Autonomous Learning
Why Appalachian State?
“What attracted me to App State was its welcoming atmosphere and the sense that it is a place where a strong sense of community and meaningful opportunities for growth coexist. As an early-career faculty member, I was especially excited by the opportunity to challenge myself, try new things, and grow alongside such a supportive community.”
Department of Mathematical Sciences
Emily Morris ’18 ’19
Lecturer
Education
M.A. in Mathematics from App State
B.S. in Mathematics Secondary Education from App State
Research and Teaching Interests
MAT 1010 (Introduction to Mathematics) and MAT 1035 (Business Mathematics with Calculus)
Why Appalachian State?
“I loved attending Appalachian State as an undergrad and grad student. I stayed in Boone after I graduated and taught at Watauga High School for the last seven years! Coming back to App State feels like coming home!”
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Sam Powell ’19
Lecturer
Education
M.S. in Mathematics from App State
B.A. in Mathematics from the University of North Carolina Asheville
Research and Teaching Interests
Introductory Mathematics including Calculus Sequence
Why Appalachian State?
“I love the mountains, and my wife who works alongside me in our department.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Guitarist for 25 years, hopefully with another 25 ahead of me, and an avid enjoyer of strategy games of all types.”
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Tyrel Winebarger ’14 ’15
Lecturer
Education
M.A. and B.S. in Mathematics from App State
Research and Teaching Interests
Math, Statistics and Data Analytics, Research in Education Innovations
Why Appalachian State?
“App State is home! I was born and raised nearby and App gave me the opportunity for an education that I otherwise would not have had. My goal is to serve the local community by providing the same opportunities for education.”
Department of Philosophy and Religion
True Gibson, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Logic and Philosophy of Science from the University of California at Irvine
B.S. in Biochemistry & Biophysics from Oregon State University
Research and Teaching Interests
Philosophy of Science, Moral Psychology, Free Will
Why Appalachian State?
“From the outside looking in, App State seemed to me like a beautiful community located in a beautiful place. Who wouldn't want to be a part of something like that?”
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Tara Fetherolf, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.S. in Physics from the University of California, Riverside
B.S. in Astronomy from San Diego State University
A.A. in Astronomy from Palomar College
Research and Teaching Interests
Stellar Astrophysics, Exoplanets, Astrobiology, Galaxy Evolution
Why Appalachian State?
“I was really drawn to the supportive environment and sense of community in the Physics and Astronomy department at App State. I fell in love with the Appalachian mountains during my visit and, as an astronomer, I am really excited to explore the night sky with the Dark Sky Observatory.”
Department of Psychology
Emily McClellan
Lecturer
Education
M.S. in Experimental Psychology from Sam Houston State University
B.A. in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University
Research and Teaching Interests
“I'll be teaching Personality Psychology and Behavior Modification in the fall. I also have experience and really enjoy teaching Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Health Psychology. Two of my favorite elective courses to teach are Close Relationships and Human Sexuality.”
Why Appalachian State?
“I was initially drawn to Appalachian State because it's in a beautiful location. I love the Appalachians and living somewhere with 4 distinct seasons is very appealing. I am also impressed with the university's focus on student success and programs that are relevant to real-world issues. And the faculty in the Psychology department are amazing — they are a big reason that App State is such an appealing place to work.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“My hobbies are well-suited for a life in Boone. I love hiking and backpacking and am on a quest to section hike the entirety of the Appalachian Trail (I'm over halfway done — woo!). I'm also a runner and am looking forward to exploring the trails in NC. I am eager to work and play in such a beautiful area.”
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Erin Morris Miller, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of Virginia
Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit and Nongovernmental Management from Virginia Tech
B.S. in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Research and Teaching Interests
“Teaching Educational Psychology and Perception. My professional applied work is the development of students with advanced academic abilities.”
Why Appalachian State?
“Looking for new challenges and experiences.”
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Carly Pullen, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. and M.S. in Developmental Psychology from West Virginia University
M.A. in Experimental Psychology from Radford University
B.S. in Psychology from Virginia Tech
Research and Teaching Interests
Developmental and Social Psychology
Why Appalachian State?
“From the website to talking with faculty during my interview to new faculty orientation, I could tell that App State prioritizes its students above all else. Having students be the focus of the job was important to me in my job search!”
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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 about the College of Arts and Sciences
Compiled by Lauren Gibbs
August 24, 2026
BOONE, N.C.
App State College of Arts and Sciences logo featuring the words ‘APPSTATE’ in bold yellow and white text above ‘College of Arts and Sciences’ in white, all on a black background.
The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian State University