Awards and Honors

Outstanding Student Awards

Each year, the Department of Geography and Planning recognizes one undergraduate senior majoring in Geography, one undergraduate senior majoring in Planning, and one graduate student pursuing the M.A. in Geography for their outstanding accomplishments.

Past Recipients:

 Outstanding Geography StudentOutstanding Planning StudentOutstanding Graduate Student
2022Rachel Hurst, Casey Mahler, Eliza MerrittKayla Hechtel, Abe Krell, Stephen PoupartHarrison Brown, Ryan Jones, Quincy Williams
2021Kieran Fowler, Abe Krell, Josh PlattCaity Duncan, Matthew Blaszyk, Patrick BlaszykBen Capell
2020Jessica MitchellChris CaudillAlex O'Neill
2019Tatiana MageeRhiannon Reed-KellyTimothy Kinlaw
2018Rich GibbsAbie BonevacLauren Andersen
2017Evan MontpellierLauren AndersenChristopher Ely
2016Marty LittleTrevor BowmanJoe Rudolph
2015Robert Clark Bryanna ShermanCourtney Cooper

Junior Marshals

Junior marshals, selected for having demonstrated academic excellence during their time at Appalachian, traditionally direct guests onsite during commencement, distribute programs, and assist candidates for graduation.

Past Marshals:

 Geography RepresentativePlanning Representative
2021Eliza MerrittChris Hitselberger
2020NoneNone
2019Jessica MitchellAlex Shmurak
2018Stella HardenRhiannon Reed-Kelly
2017Jennifer KernJason Payne
2016Evan MontpellierLauren Andersen
2015Eric BurtonMarty Little