Exciting News: Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris Appointed Chancellor of Appalachian State University!

BOONE, N.C. — Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris has been appointed as the chancellor of Appalachian State University, starting March 1. This announcement came during a meeting of the University of North Carolina System Board of Governors on February 27.

“It’s my honor to continue advancing the mission of our university, which I love. I’ve spent over 20 years serving this great institution and the surrounding communities in many roles, including recently as interim chancellor,” said Norris.

— App State Chancellor Heather Norris

Peter Hans, the President of the UNC System, praised Norris for her leadership and service to the Appalachian community over the past two decades. He noted her exemplary performance as interim chancellor since April 2024 and praised her ability to tackle complex challenges while keeping student success at the forefront.

“Everyone who has worked with Dr. Norris admires her talent for addressing complicated issues without losing sight of our core mission,” said Hans.

At a welcome event for Norris, she was greeted with enthusiasm from students, faculty, and staff. The event, held in Kidd Brewer Stadium, showcased her strong connections with the university and community.

Hans applauded Norris for her calm presence during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, emphasizing her role in uniting the university and the local community.

Wendy Murphy, chair of the UNC Board of Governors, highlighted Norris’ financial expertise as a significant asset for the university’s future. “She has been a bridge builder and a champion for students,” said Murphy.

Mark E. Ricks, chair of the university’s Board of Trustees, expressed excitement about the university’s future under Norris, especially with its recent designation as a Research 2 university. He noted that this status positions App State to lead innovation and economic development in the region.

“This is a pivotal time for App State. With our recent Research 2 status, we are well-equipped to drive economic growth and improve community well-being,” stated Ricks.

“Her deep connection to the university and ability to foster stability make Dr. Norris the right leader for this moment,” emphasized Deanna Ballard, chair of the Chancellor’s Search Advisory Committee.

— North Carolina Sen. Deanna Ballard

Norris is known for her collaborative leadership style and dedication to improving relationships between the university and its surrounding communities. “I recognized the need to strengthen trust with our constituent groups,” she said. “This work is ongoing, and we are committed to maintaining those relationships.”

The search process for the chancellor position involved input from over 40 applicants. Listening sessions allowed stakeholders, including students, faculty, and community members, to share their views on the qualities they wished to see in the next chancellor. The insights gathered guided the selection committee in identifying Norris as the top candidate.

Norris came to App State in 2003 as a finance professor. She has since held several leadership positions, including dean of the Walker College of Business and provost. After taking on the role of interim chancellor in April 2024, she has focused on initiatives that drive growth and respond to community needs.

She is excited about the future of App State and believes in its mission to provide quality education while reflecting on the university’s service to the Appalachian community. “My dedication to academic success and our local heritage fuels my commitment to App State,” Norris expressed.

Norris holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from James Madison University and master’s and doctoral degrees from Penn State. She is married to Robert, also an App State alumnus, and they have a daughter, Emma.

As she steps into her new role, Norris has many plans to ensure that App State remains a strong educational pillar in the region, poised for future success.

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