Congratulations to the 2026 Awards of Distinction recipients!

  • Gov. James E. Holshouser Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service: Dr. John Paul “JP” Jameson
  • University of North Carolina Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Elizabeth Shay
  • Appalachian State University Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Pablo Chialvo
  • Appalachian State University School/College Award: Dr. Mark Nunes, Dr. Savannah Paige Murray, Dr. Justin Kent, Dr. Rebecca Kappus and Dr. Jason Lynch
  • W.H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion: Reagan Petto, Asher Fazal, Ben Tugwell, Nicole Tran, Dr. Christopher Hogan, Pam Walker, Dr. Kevin Eller and Dr. Rahman Tashakkori
  • Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity: Dr. Martie Thompson
  • Provost’s Award for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity: Dr. Jeffrey McBride
  • Wayne D. Duncan Appalachian State University Faculty Enrichment and Teaching Fellowship: Dr. Shannon Cline
  • Harvey R. Durham Outstanding Freshman Advocate Award: Sarah Garrow
  • Staff Excellence Award: Dr. James Beeler, Cele Burt, Chris Bicking, Ryan Kennedy and Ashley Vinson
  • Student Employee Supervisor of the Year Award: Russell Paige
  • Ronny L. Brooks Leadership Award: Daye Talley, David Itson and Courtney Castellow
2025 Awards of Distinction room view during ceremony presentations

April 28, 3:30 p.m.

2026 Awards of Distinction

The annual Awards of Distinction ceremony recognizes the exceptional achievements, service and leadership of App State faculty, staff and students.

Note that this is a private event and attendance is by invitation only. An Appalachian Today story recognizing 2026 honorees will follow the event.

2025 Awards of Distinction room view during ceremony presentations
App State Chancellor Heather Norris with Dr. Charlie Chen.

2025 Awards of Distinction

Appalachian State University held its third annual Awards of Distinction ceremony in 2025, honoring 29 students, faculty and staff for their outstanding contributions to both the university and its community members. Awardees were recognized for leadership, teaching, service and more.

Awards Information and Past Honorees

From groundbreaking contributions to transformative leadership, the recipients exemplify the highest standards of excellence and inspire others through their achievements.