BOONE, N.C. — This semester, nearly 30 new full-time faculty members are joining the Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences in both Boone and Hickory.
To learn more about some of them, read below.
Department of Anthropology
Ina Kim, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Anthropology (Medicine, Science, and Technology) from the University of California, Irvine
M.A. in Anthropology from the University of California, Irvine
M.A. in Anthropology from Seoul National University
B.A. in Anthropology from Seoul National University
Research and Teaching Interests
Medical Anthropology, Environmental Anthropology, Science and Technology Studies, Disaster Studies, Japanese Studies, East Asian Studies, American Studies
Why Appalachian State?
“I was drawn to App State by the vibrant energy and support of the Anthropology department, the curiosity of its students, and its vision for critical medical anthropology. I'm also excited to discover the beauty of Boone — both its natural environment and welcoming community.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“In my free time, I enjoy yoga, pilates, dancing, playing board games, and spending time outdoors.”
Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences
Joshua Fiadorwu, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Applied Science and Technology (Applied Chemistry) from North Carolina A&T State University
M.S. in Chemistry from North Carolina A&T State University
B.S. in Chemistry from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Research and Teaching Interests
Research: Metabolomics, Neuroengineering, Spectroscopy
Teaching: General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Science
Why Appalachian State?
“A strong desire to be a contributor to the vision of App State as a premier public institution that prepares students to lead purposeful lives.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I aspire to give my very best to this noble institution. I enjoy family time and adventure trips.”
Department of English
Alex Brock, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from Princeton University
M.A. in French Literature from École Normale Supérieure
B.A. in Comparative Literature from Princeton University
Research and Teaching Interests
World Literature, Medieval Literature
Why Appalachian State?
“The outdoors and the focus on teaching.”
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Caleb Johnson
Assistant Professor
Education
M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Wyoming
B.A. in Journalism from the University of Alabama
Research and Teaching Interests
Creative Writing, Fiction and Nonfiction
Why Appalachian State?
“I taught at App State from 2018-2022, and chose to return for the brilliant colleagues and students who make this such a wonderful place to work and live. The High Country just feels like home.”
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Hannah LeClair, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Comparative Literature and Literary Theory from the University of Pennsylvania
M.A. in Comparative Literature and Literary Theory from the University of Pennsylvania
B.A. in Language and Literature from Bard College
Research and Teaching Interests
Victorian Literature
Why Appalachian State?
“I'm thrilled to join the English department's vibrant community at App State.”
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DeAndra Miller
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Florida International University
B.A. in English Literature from Minot State University
Research and Teaching Interests
Creative Writing (Fiction), Comics and Graphic Novels
Why Appalachian State?
“I love the rural living and the tight-knit feel of the community.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I love to refill the creative well by playing video games and reading.”
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Sidonia Serafini, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in English from the University of Georgia
M.A. in English from the University of Georgia
B.A. in English Language and Literature from Flagler College
Department of Geography and Planning
Kristen de Graauw, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Geography from West Virginia University
M.S. in Earth and Quaternary Sciences from Indiana State University
B.A. in Geography from Kennesaw State University
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Jacob Warner, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Geography from Louisiana State University
M.A. in Anthropology from Louisiana State University
B.A. in Anthropology from Louisiana State University
Research and Teaching Interests
Climatology, Paleoclimatology, Past Human-Environment Interactions, Environmental/Climate Monitoring, Sclerochronology/Sclerochemistry
Why Appalachian State?
“A chance to work with graduate students, strong community, and good resources.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I like to get outdoors and enjoy cooking. I am a SAA Douglas C. Kellogg Fellowship for Geoarchaeological Research award winner and helped secure a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant (P2C2) for my Ph.D. research. I aim to submit at least one NSF grant proposal this coming year and plan to recruit graduate students.”
Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences
Tyler Barnes
Lecturer
Education
Ph.D. Candidate in Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia
M.S. in Marine Sciences from Moss Landing Marine Labs
B.A. in Environmental Studies from the University of San Diego
Research and Teaching Interests
“I'm a coastal geomorphologist. My current research quantifies morphodynamic change of lagoons and salt marshes on Virginia's Eastern Shore.”
Why Appalachian State?
“Professionally, I'm committed to providing an outstanding undergraduate education through both classes and research experiences. Personally, I love small mountain towns. App excels in both of these areas.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I'm a rock climber, and I'm always looking for new climbing partners.”
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Adam Benfield, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences from Pennsylvania State University
M.S. in Earth and Environmental Sciences from Lehigh University
B.S. in Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences from Pennsylvania State University
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Jessie McCraw
Lecturer
Education
Ph.D. Candidate in Geosciences at the University of Alabama
M.S. in Earth Science from Syracuse University
B.S. in Geosciences from the University of Arizona
Research and Teaching Interests
Paleontology/Paleobiology, Co-Evolution of Earth and Life, Sedimentary Processes, Oceanography
Why Appalachian State?
“The amazing Geology department and people!”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I'm simultaneously finishing my Ph.D. dissertation remotely this fall.”
Department of Government and Justice Studies
Seyoung Jung, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
M.A. in Political Science from Yonsei University
B.A. in Political Science and Diplomacy from Yonsei University
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Nicola Pasquire
Instructor
Education
Ph.D. Candidate in Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of South Carolina
M.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina
B.S. in Criminal Justice from Northern Michigan University
Research and Teaching Interests
Corrections, Post-Incarceration Mortality, Health of Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Individuals, Victimization in Incarceration
Why Appalachian State?
“1) I enjoy collaborating with others and feel encouraged and welcomed to do so by the faculty here, and 2) The interdisciplinary program. I think this is very important as criminal justice and correctional issues transcend far beyond what CJ can offer. I think students having a well-rounded education will be better prepared for critical thinking, and 3) I really like the area. I had never been to Boone before, but I had visited Asheville and other surrounding areas multiple times and do love it up here. It is a place I could see myself living, as well as a job I could see myself doing.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I ran a program in a jail in South Carolina that focused on preparing women for reentry into the community following their time in jail, and had a particular focus on career preparedness. I enjoy hiking, skiing, and jiu-jitsu!”
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Cody Taylor, Ph.D. ’16 ’20
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Public Administration from North Carolina State University
M.P.A. from Appalachian State University
B.S. in Political Science from Appalachian State University
Research and Teaching Interests
State and Local Government, Community and Economic Development, Social Networks and Network Governance
Why Appalachian State?
“App has always offered a strong sense of community.”
Department of History
Doris Morgan Rueda, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Legal History from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
M.A. in History and Digital Media from California State University, San Marcos
B.A. in Criminology, Law, and Society from the University of California, Irvine
Research and Teaching Interests
Latinx Legal History, History of Childhood and Youth
Why Appalachian State?
“App State's dedication to quality research, student excellence, and community outreach aligned so well with my pedagogical values. I'm excited to be a part of App State's vision for the region and state!”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I'm a multimedia artist who blends my own Colombian heritage with my love of pop art and wearable art.”
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Stephen Hausmann, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in History from Temple University
M.A. in History from the University of Vermont
B.A. in History from the University of Vermont
B.A. in English from the University of Vermont
Research and Teaching Interests
U.S. Environmental History, Native American and Indigenous History, History of the American West
Why Appalachian State?
“I was immediately drawn to the beautiful setting among the mountains, and the warm and inviting atmosphere from faculty, staff, and students convinced me this was the place for me!”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I'm currently working on my book project, an environmental history of the Black Hills of South Dakota. When I don't have my head in a history book, I can be found baking, hiking, and rooting for the Boston Red Sox!”
Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
Yunuen Gomez-Ocampo, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Hispanic Literature from the University of California, Santa Barbara
M.A. in Publishing from the Autonomous University of the State of Morelos
B.A. in Literature from the Autonomous University of the State of Morelos
Research and Teaching Interests
Latin American, Latinx, and Caribbean Studies, Community Engagement, Migration and Border Studies, Heritage Language, Translation Studies
Why Appalachian State?
“The welcoming environment, the strong sense of community — and yes, the mountains too. App State’s focus on transformative education makes it the perfect place for me to create the kind of community impact I care about most.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I’m passionate about community service and lifelong learning, and I love finding ways to connect my interests — like migration issues, language learning, publishing, and mentoring — with making a positive impact. Outside of that, I enjoy traveling with my family, exploring nature and small towns, whether on foot, hiking trail, or bike.”
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Karola Rico, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Linguistics from Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro
M.A. in Amerindian Studies and Bilingual Education from Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro
B.A. in Spanish and Linguistics from Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro
Research and Teaching Interests
“I have taught all levels of Spanish, English as a Second Language, The Mesoamerican Cultural Tradition, Global and Intercultural Connections (Indigenous Peoples of Mexico), The Culture and Civilization of Spanish America, Field Methods in Linguistics, and Academic Discourse. My research has been focused on Language Revitalization and documentation of the Otomi language, Language Socialization, Discourse Analysis, Structure of Personal Experience Stories in Otomi and Spanish, Migration, and Identity.”
Why Appalachian State?
“The first time I visited App State, it was during a weekend trip with my husband and our daughter. We were exploring the surrounding mountain towns and came across Boone. We visited the university and fell in love with the campus. I couldn’t help but think, “I want to teach here!” The idea of working and eventually moving to the mountains was incredibly appealing. After doing research about the institution and the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, I was certain that this was the university I wanted to work at. In 2023, I started as a Visiting Assistant Professor, and it’s been an absolute delight to work with such diverse and dedicated colleagues in my department. I’m also thrilled to be teaching and learning from our incredible student community.”
Department of Mathematical Sciences
Sofia Cole ’21
Lecturer
Education
M.A. in Mathematics (Mathematics Education) from Appalachian State University
B.S. in Mathematics from the University of North Carolina Charlotte
Research and Teaching Interests
“My main research interest centers on investigating how students' mathematical identities are formed and how instructors can empower all learners to see themselves as capable and confident doers of mathematics.”
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Lincoln Sorenson
Lecturer
Education
M.S. in Mathematical Sciences from the University of Minnesota, Duluth
B.A. in Teaching Mathematics 5-12 from the University of Minnesota, Duluth
B.S. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Minnesota, Duluth
Research and Teaching Interests
College Algebra and Precalculus
Why Appalachian State?
“I came to App State with my wonderful fiancé, who also found employment here. I am so excited to teach, continue to learn, and explore the mountainsides with my two dogs.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“With my work, I hope to show that education is a worthy investment, grows mind and character, and is best achieved through compassion.”
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Karlee Westrem, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Mathematics from Michigan Technological University
M.S. in Mathematics from the University of Minnesota, Duluth
B.S. in Visual Arts from the University of North Dakota
B.S. in Mathematics from the University of North Dakota
Research and Teaching Interests
Algebraic Combinatorics, Representation Theory
Why Appalachian State?
“I am excited to be at Appalachian State University for the many opportunities to grow professionally. The Mathematics department is very welcoming and supportive of each other.”
Department of Philosophy and Religion
Kirstin Waldkoenig, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Oregon
M.A. in Environmental Philosophy from the University of Montana
B.A. in Philosophy from Susquehanna University
B.A. in Creative Writing from Susquehanna University
Research and Teaching Interests
Environmental Philosophy, Feminist Philosophy
Why Appalachian State?
“I chose App State for its focus upon quality teaching, its expressed commitment to ecological and social wellbeing, and its beautifully lush and mountainous location.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I aspire to live my life outdoors as much as possible. I cycle my time through various passions, including backpacking, climbing, canoeing, baking, making music, and textile arts (to name a few!).”
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Rakkiyappan Chandran, Ph.D.
Lecturer
Education
Ph.D. in Nanoscience from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro
M.S. in Nanoscience from the Amity Institute of Nanotechnology
M.S. Nanoscience Research from Harvard Medical School
Research and Teaching Interests
“My research focuses on sustainable nanobiopolymers and advanced material science, with applications in smart textiles and energy-related technologies. I work at the intersection of nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sustainability, developing innovative solutions that bridge fundamental science with market-driven applications. In teaching, I specialize in nanoscience, physics, and sustainable technology, with an emphasis on hands-on laboratory training and experiential learning. My goal is to equip students with both technical expertise and a deeper awareness of how science can contribute to solving sustainability challenges.”
Why Appalachian State?
“I chose Appalachian State because of its strong emphasis on sustainability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student-focused teaching. The university’s commitment to innovative research and real-world impact aligns closely with my own vision of integrating science, technology, and sustainable practices to address global challenges. I was also drawn to the welcoming community and the opportunity to contribute to both teaching and research excellence in the CAS.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I am passionate about advancing sustainable materials innovation through research, education, and industry collaboration. Over the past decade, I’ve gained extensive industrial experience in additive manufacturing, smart textiles, and nanobiopolymer formulation, with a focus on scalable, eco-friendly solutions. My academic work has resulted in over 20 peer-reviewed research articles, a book, and two book chapters, spanning disciplines from biomedical applications to energy-efficient materials. I’ve also had the privilege of receiving several recognitions, including the Activate Fellowship, which supports hard-tech entrepreneurs building solutions with global impact. I aspire to continue bridging academic research with real-world implementation to create transformative technologies. Outside of work, I enjoy playing table tennis, volunteering in community service, and performing traditional Indian percussion instruments like the tabla and dolak — activities that keep me grounded, connected, and inspired.”
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Madeline Hinckle, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in STEM Education from North Carolina State University
M.Ed. in STEM Education from Clemson University
B.A. in Physics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Research and Teaching Interests
Physics Education Research, Integrating Computer Science Into Physics Learning
Why Appalachian State?
“I've been at Appalachian for a year in my previous position and fell in love with it. I can't imagine working anywhere else now! App values teaching, which is my top priority.”
Department of Psychology
Ashley Gilliam, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Psychology from Brandeis University
M.A. in Psychology from Brandeis University
B.S. in Psychological Science from Western Kentucky University
B.A. in Cultural Anthropology from Western Kentucky University
Research and Teaching Interests
Cognitive and Social/Cultural Psychology
Why Appalachian State?
“App State's emphasis on teaching and mentorship of students fits with my own goals. I enjoy the class sizes, the environment in Boone, and my own research benefits this region of the U.S. as well.”
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Joe Wang, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in School Psychology from The University of Cincinnati
Ed.S. in School Psychology from Miami University
M.S. in School Psychology from Miami University
B.S. in Child Learning and Development Psychology from the University of Texas
B.A. in Psychology from the University of Texas
Research and Teaching Interests
Research: Mindfulness in the Schools, Behavioral Consultation, Prevention, Behavior Analysis
Teaching: Academic Assessment and Intervention, Educational Psychology
Why Appalachian State?
“Appalachian State's balance of teaching and research, supportive and collaborative faculty, and the beautiful town of Boone. Everyone, from faculty to staff to students, that I spoke to genuinely expressed loving being here.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, spending time with my wife and cat, and listening to music.”
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Stephen White, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Education
Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Mississippi
M.A. in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Mississippi
B.A. in Psychology from the University of Mississippi
Research and Teaching Interests
Behavioral Neuroscience, Behavioral Pharmacology
Why Appalachian State?
“I was attracted by the history of support for faculty and student success at App State. And it is much cooler than southeast Texas.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I was highly involved in The Honors College and McNair Scholars Program at Sam Houston State and was recognized by the Honors College for supporting student theses.”
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Karina Kinney ’24
Lecturer
Education
M.A. in Experimental Psychology from Appalachian State University
B.A. in Psychology from Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi
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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
August 21, 2025
BOONE, N.C.
The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian State University
The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian State University