Statement from Appalachian State University on allegations involving former faculty member

Appalachian State University is sharing information with its campus community related to a former faculty member, John Stanley Ross, following an investigation that led to his separation from the university related to a sustained pattern of alleged misconduct.

We know allegations of sexual misconduct are deeply concerning, particularly for those directly affected and for the broader campus community. The university is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and prioritizing support for those impacted.

As part of the university’s response, Appalachian State is releasing certain personnel information related to the separation of Ross. While personnel matters are subject to legal and privacy requirements, to ensure a robust culture of reviewing and responding to allegations of misconduct, to demonstrate that the university does not tolerate misconduct, and to maintain a safe learning and working environment, consistent with N.C. General Statutes section 126-24, the university has determined that it is essential to release the following information:  

John Stanley Ross served as an Associate Professor of Music and the Director of Bands in the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University. Ross was hired in 2006, teaching both graduate and undergraduate students and supervising student teachers. Ross also served as the advisor for the national band honorary fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi, and worked in the university’s Cannon Music Camp. Ross underwent criminal background checks consistent with the university’s hiring and program participation practices, which yielded nothing that would have prevented Ross’s participation.

The university is aware that Ross’s prior employers included the Interlochen Center for the Arts — a nonprofit organization that operates arts education programs in Interlochen, Michigan — from 1992 to 2000.

In February 2026, Appalachian State received and immediately investigated an allegation that Ross engaged in misconduct. Through the course of the investigation, university investigators reviewed prior reports that had been received regarding Ross. In 2015, a group of App State students reported allegations of sexual harassment that were not substantiated at the time. In 2018, a former Interlochen student, who was not associated with App State, made the university aware that they had reported to Interlochen that Ross sexually harassed them during Ross’s previous employment at Interlochen. As the allegations did not include any activity taking place at App State or involving any App State students, the university’s staff at the time worked with the person to connect them with supportive resources. 

Appalachian State determined that collectively, the information  warranted further investigation. Therefore, the university placed Ross on administrative leave and barred him from campus during the investigation, which found that there was a sustained pattern of alleged sexual misconduct. On June 26, 2026, the university issued Ross its notice of intent to discharge him from employment. Ross remained on leave and was not permitted on campus throughout this process. 

Prior to the conclusion of the 14-day notice period required by Section 603 of The Code of the University of North Carolina, on July 8, 2026, Ross notified the university of his resignation effective July 9, 2026. The university did not solicit Ross’s resignation and intended to proceed with Ross’s discharge. 

University leaders and support staff are reaching out directly to impacted groups, ensuring community members have access to confidential support and care resources. 

“The safety of our students, faculty, and staff will always be our highest priority, and a pattern of misconduct that violates the dignity and well-being of our community members is egregious and completely unacceptable,” Appalachian State University Chancellor Heather Norris said. “When members of our community come forward to share their experiences, it takes courage. I want to emphasize that reporting concerns is vital to looking out for one another and to fostering safe and respectful campuses.”

“Across every campus in the UNC System, our priority is learning and working environments grounded in safety, respect, and the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical integrity,” said University of North Carolina System President Peter Hans. “We stand firmly with Chancellor Norris and Appalachian State University in upholding these core values, where every student and employee is secure and supported.”

“As we prepare to welcome our community back for the fall semester, we affirm our commitment to maintaining a safe learning and working environment for every member of our community and to routinely reviewing and strengthening our university’s reporting and support procedures and resources,” Chancellor Norris said.

To report allegations of misconduct related to this or any other matter, use this form or reach out to the Office of Access and Opportunity: Equal Opportunity at 828-262-2144.

Supportive resources and reporting options are available to the App State Community through:

• Report a Concern: This reporting resource is designed to help quickly identify and contact the appropriate office on campus for their specific concern. Visit report.appstate.edu.
• AppCares: App State’s central hub for wellness, health and safety information, and resources and support for the campus community.  Visit appcares.appstate.edu, or call 828-262-6156 if you need help finding a campus resource during normal business hours.
• If you need non-emergency assistance after-hours, call 828-262-8000 to reach App State Police Dispatch.

Report any immediate safety concerns and emergencies on campus by calling 911.