We are pleased to announce that Sheryl Oring has been named the new Chair of Applied Design in the College of Fine and Applied Arts.
Sheryl brings a wealth of academic leadership experience that uniquely qualifies her to guide this professionally-focused department into the future. With a proven track record as a department chair and dean at art and design institutions - including the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, the James Pearson Duffy Department of Art, Art History, and Design in Detroit at Wayne State University, and as a distinguished faculty member at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro - she has consistently shown her ability to create inclusive, innovative, and collaborative learning environments. Her background in both creative and administrative arenas demonstrates her commitment to excellence in education and research.
The Department of Applied Design is celebrated for its excellence in design education, consistently earning national and international recognition through its students' achievements in design competitions, including the prestigious PAVE Global Award in 2025 and Mockett’s Annual Design Competition (16 student winners in the past 9 years). Sheryl’s dynamic leadership, extensive experience, and dedication to fostering creative talent will further enhance our tradition of innovative instruction across all our programs. Her vision includes fostering strong industry relationships, enriching our curriculum, and promoting a spirit of creativity that prepares students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving design landscape.
James Douthit, D.M.A., the Interim Dean of the College of Fine and Applied Arts is excited to add Sheryl to our team, “Sheryl brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will allow us to continue and advance the work that is ongoing in the Department of Applied Design. Sheryl has already been introduced to some of our alums, and is eager to begin working with our faculty, students, chair colleagues, and our leadership team.”
Join us in welcoming Sheryl Oring to the College of Fine and Applied Arts at Appalachian State University.
Sheryl Oring
Sheryl Oring