North Wake News

Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris has been elected as the new chancellor of Appalachian State University, as announced by the UNC Board of Governors. Norris, who has served as interim chancellor since April 2024, will officially begin her role on March 1. Her appointment follows a recommendation from UNC System President Peter Hans.

Hans praised Norris for her leadership during the recovery from Hurricane Helene, stating, "The recovery from Hurricane Helene showed Interim Chancellor Norris at her best, bringing healing and steady leadership to campus and bringing people together across the community." He further noted her potential to enhance student outcomes and drive success at the university's Hickory campus.

The decision comes after an extensive national search that spanned eight months and included more than 40 candidates. The process involved nine campus forums attended by over 250 individuals and received more than 2,300 online survey responses. Ultimately, three finalists were endorsed by the App State Board of Trustees based on recommendations from a search advisory committee comprising faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees, and UNC System leaders.

Deanna Ballard, chair of the search advisory committee, highlighted Norris' deep connection to Appalachian State University. "Our diverse and highly qualified candidate pool was exceptional; however, Dr. Norris’ deep-rooted connection to the institution... distinguished her," she said.

Norris joined Appalachian State in 2003 as an assistant professor of finance and progressed through various roles including dean of the Walker College of Business from 2016 to 2020 and provost until becoming interim chancellor in 2024. Her academic career began at Pennsylvania State University before moving on to Bowling Green State University and West Virginia University.

Expressing enthusiasm for her new role, Norris stated: “In the 125th year of the university’s history... Our existing strengths are numerous... It is my great honor to continue to serve this university.”

Mark Ricks, chair of App State's Board of Trustees emphasized that with its recent Research 2 status designation under Carnegie Classification for high research activity institutions, "This is an exciting time for App State."

Board of Governors Chair Wendy Murphy remarked on Norris' experience saying: “Dr. Norris has held successful leadership roles at the university for years... I look forward to seeing App State continue to thrive under her watch.”

Norris holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from James Madison University along with master's and doctoral degrees in finance from Pennsylvania State University.