Appalachian State University
Congratulations on your graduation from
Appalachian State University!
Commencement is the ultimate celebration of one of the most significant accomplishments of our students' lifetimes. We are proud to honor your achievement.
Apply to Graduate
Commencement Ceremonies
Holmes Convocation Center111 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 28608
Boone Campus
Ceremonies will be recorded and posted to this site.
Friday, Dec. 11
9 a.m. ceremony
College of Arts and Sciences
University College
1 p.m. ceremony
Hayes School of Music
College of Fine and Applied Arts
Beaver College of Health Sciences
5 p.m. ceremony
Reich College of Education
Walker College of Business
Graduates will attend the commencement ceremony of the college that administers/houses their academic program.
Ceremony Schedule
Presiding, Dr. Heather Norris, Chancellor
Processional
“Pomp and Circumstance”
Edward Elgar, Composer
Roger Harvey, Arranger
Presentation of Colors
App State ROTC’s Pershing Rifles
“The Star-Spangled Banner”
Words by Francis Scott Key
John Higgins, Arranger
Vocalist Gabe Johnson, baritone and music industry studies double major (music marketing and promotion; recording and production)
Welcome
Dr. Neva J. Specht, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
Commencement Address
Dr. Heather Norris, Chancellor
Greetings from the Appalachian State University Board of Trustees and UNC System Board of Governors
Presentation of Candidates
Provost Specht
Conferring of Degrees
Chancellor Norris
Alma Mater
“Cherished Vision”
Words by J.D. Rankin
Vocalist Gabe Johnson
Recessional
“Procession of the Scholars”
Dr. William G. Harbinson, Composer
“Hi Hi Yikas”
Dr. William Gilbert Spencer, Composer and Arranger
Musical selections performed by Appalachian Brass Ensemble
Hayes School of Music
Dr. Samuel Ambrose, Conductor
About Commencement
Tickets are not needed for commencement ceremonies.
Graduates do not need to register, and they may invite an unlimited number of guests.
During each ceremony, graduates will have their names announced, walk across the stage (from right to left) and be professionally photographed receiving their diploma covers. Chancellor Heather Norris will confer degrees upon graduates at each ceremony.
- Each ceremony will last approximately two hours.
- Accessibility and disability accommodations are available.
- Review the Holmes Center's Bag and Admission Policy — small, clear plastic bags, small clutch purses, individual seat cushions and medically necessary items are permitted.
- App State, media outlets, and family and friends film commencement ceremonies. Attendees may be included in photography or videos used to promote Appalachian State University.
Related Stories and Videos
Spring 2027 Commencement Ceremonies
Holmes Convocation Center111 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 28608
Boone Campus
Bachelor’s candidates: Attend the commencement ceremony of the college/program that administers/houses your academic program.
Master’s, specialist and doctoral candidates: Attend the Williams School of Graduate Studies commencement ceremony.
Thursday, May 6
1 p.m. ceremony
Beaver College of Health Sciences
5 p.m. ceremony
Hayes School of Music
College of Fine and Applied Arts
College of Fine and Applied Arts
Friday, May 7
9 a.m. ceremony
Walker College of Business
1 p.m. ceremony
College of Arts and Sciences
English • History • Interdisciplinary Studies • Languages, Literatures and Cultures • Philosophy and Religion • Psychology • Sociology
University College
5 p.m. ceremony
College of Arts and Sciences
Anthropology • Biology • Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences • Computer Science • Geography and Planning • Geological and Environmental Sciences • Government and Justice Studies • Mathematical Sciences • Physics and Astronomy • Rural Resilience and Innovation
Saturday, May 8
10 a.m. ceremony
Reich College of Education
2 p.m. ceremony
Williams School of Graduate Studies
Save the Date
Fall 2027 Commencement ceremonies will be held Friday, Dec. 10.