Honors Wednesday Memo: Volume 10, Issue 3, Wednesday, September 2, 2026
edited by Melanie Kershaw
Hello Honors College students,
One of the best parts of the Honors experience is the chance to follow your curiosity wherever it leads. Along the way, you'll find a community that offers support and perspective as your interests deepen and your goals shift. Marcus Osborne's ('01) spotlight story demonstrates that what you learn and who you meet can shape the kind of leader you become. As you explore this week's events and experiences, take a moment to consider what you're learning, and how you're growing.
Best wishes,
Vicky
Upcoming Opportunities
Dr. Klima is happy to help you apply; send her an email.
Gilman Award Application Opens
Students who are Pell Grant Recipients are encouraged to apply for the Gilman Scholarship, an award of up to $5,000 for studying or interning abroad. Sign up for updates about the scholarship and attend information sessions in Appalachian Hall room 085 on Sept. 3 at 5:30 pm or Sept. 11 at 1:00 pm. Applications are due Oct. 1. Contact Dara Carney-Nedelman for more information.
AHA Event: Honors Pre-Tailgate
Join the Appalachian Honors Association (AHA) for their first event of the semester on Friday, Sept. 4 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm on the Bailey, the field between Summit and Cone Hall. Kick off the first gameday of the season with yard games, food, and community. Complete the Google Form to RSVP. Contact Kaylie Morales with any questions.
Climate Wayfinding Retreat
Apply for one of 15 spots available in the annual Climate Wayfinding Retreat. This free retreat includes a short session at the Student Union on Friday, Sept. 18 at 4:00 pm, and two all-day sessions at the Valle Crucis Conference Center on Saturday, Sept. 19 and Sunday, Sept. 20 at 9:00 am. Lunch will be provided. Take advantage of this opportunity to build connections and join a community of climate advocates in a beautiful location. All majors are welcome to apply by Tuesday, Sept. 1. Contact Laura England for more information.
Career Development Center’s Look Smart Clothing Closet
Drop by the Career Development Center in the Student Union for the Look Smart Clothing Closet on Wednesday, Sept. 23 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. This free closet features blazers, dresses, and various professional attire in a wide range of sizes. Students are not expected to return the items.
15th Annual Global Symposium
Attend the free 15th Annual Global Symposium in the Student Union on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 9:00 am, followed by the Global Leadership Awards Luncheon for award winners. Submit a globally focused presentation by Sept. 29 to be considered for awards up to $1,000, or simply attend the event to learn more about international engagement. Contact the Office of International Programs to learn more.
Stay in the Know
Sustainability Film Series: Audio Under the Stars
Head to Sanford Mall on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 8:00 pm for Audio Under the Stars, the latest installment of the Sustainability Film Series. Join Sustainability and Energy Management and AppDocs for environmentally themed audio documentaries and s’mores by the fire. RSVP on Engage.
Veterinary Technology Speaker Series
Take part in free Zoom events offered by the Veterinary Technology Program. Join Vet Tech Wellness and Engagement Coordinator Lisa Wiborg for “More Than a Pet: The Human-Animal Bond and Relationship‑Centered Care” on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 10:00 am. Check back in on Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 10:00 am for Wiborg’s “Understanding Pet Loss & Bereavement: Honoring the Bond.” Students from all majors are welcome.
Volunteer for STEAM Expo: Discover Your Future
Volunteer for the Mathematics and Science Education Center’s STEAM Expo: Discover Your Future on Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm. This event is for middle-grades and high school students. Volunteers are required to complete the short Minors on Campus training and pass a background check. Opportunities range from event setup to hands-on activities and presentations. Complete the volunteer registration form by Friday, Sept. 18. Contact Leah Greer with any questions.
9th Annual Community FEaST: "Connection Through Food"
Join the Appalachian Food Research for Equity, Sustainability, and Health Collaborative (AppalFRESH) for free food and live music on Sanford Mall on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 4:30 pm. The theme for this year’s Community FEaST (Food, Engagement, and Story Telling) is “Connection Through Food.” Attendees are asked to bring their own plates, utensils and water bottles. Stop by Sustainability and Energy Management's table for bandanas and a free reusable utensil. Sign up to volunteer for the event or donate non-perishable goods to the Mountaineer Food Hub. Contact Carla Ramsdell with any questions.
Free Legal Advice for Students
Visit the Student Legal Clinic in the Student Union for free, confidential legal advice. Services include legal research, document review, coaching on how to navigate legal disputes, and referrals to other resources. Schedule an appointment or contact Karla Rusch to learn more.
In the Honors Spotlight
Marcus W. Osborne Named App State’s 2026 Honors College Alumni Honoree
Appalachian State University recently honored Marcus W. Osborne as the Honors College’s 2026 Alumni honoree during the Alumni Awards Gala held on July 11. During his time as an undergraduate, Osborne resided in Coffey Hall, the home of the Honors College where Appalachian Hall stands today. A magna cum laude graduate of App State with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, he also holds a Master of Healthcare Administration from Pfeiffer University. In his professional career, Osborne has exemplified the Honors College mission of community involvement and interdisciplinary leadership. Osborne currently serves as the Director of Wellness Services at Catawba Valley Health System, where he oversees a diverse portfolio including community health, sports medicine, and mobile services. His distinguished career includes significant contributions to regional healthcare including developing a $660,000 mobile mammography unit, securing substantial grant funding, and providing critical leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is also a dedicated mentor and leader, serving on the Beaver College of Health Sciences Advisory Board.
Read the full story about the Alumni Awards Gala by Brian Miller and Courtney Roberts on the AppalachianToday website.
Have announcements to share? Submissions can be made to honors@appstate.edu. Any content received by the prior Wednesday will be considered for the following week’s issue.
Have a story to share? Share what you have done, what you are doing, or what you will be doing by submitting a story here.
To stay in the know, learn about opportunities, and take part in the Honors community, find us below!