The College of Fine and Applied Arts is delighted to welcome two distinguished officers to our community: Major Zach Jones joins us as Professor of Military Science, and Captain Sam Snelson comes on board as a faculty member.
Major Jones assumed his role in August 2025 after being commissioned through the Iowa State University Army ROTC program in 2009. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Performance, a Master of Science in Military Operational Studies from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, and a Master of Arts in International and Interagency Studies from the University of Kansas—where his thesis examined the strategic threat of Chinese artificial intelligence to global security. Over his career, he has served in Light Infantry, Stryker, and Special Operations formations, commanded two companies in the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and held key staff positions including Platoon Leader in the 25th Infantry Division, Company Observer/Controller/Trainer at the Joint Readiness Training Center, staff roles with U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and both Division and Brigade Executive Officer billets. Major Jones has deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and Eastern Europe in support of combat and strategic operations alongside U.S., allied, and partner forces.
Captain Snelson, a native of Pasadena, Texas, graduated from the United States Military Academy in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Psychology. Commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer, she completed the Field Artillery Basic Officer Leaders Course at Fort Sill and served with the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) as Fire Direction Officer, Platoon Leader, and Heavy Weapons Company Fire Support Officer. She also held Company Executive Officer and Battalion Adjutant roles before selection for Psychological Operations and graduation from Airborne School. Her professional military education includes Air Assault School, Pathfinder School, and the Army Special Operations Forces Captains Career Course, where she was Fires Liaison and Student Management OIC. From March 2024 to May 2025, she commanded Group Headquarters and Headquarters Company at the 2nd Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne). Her awards span the Meritorious Service Medal, Army CommendatioSnelson resides in Boone, NC with her husband and their cats, Clementine and Honey.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Major Jones and Captain Snelson as they bring their leadership, expertise, and dedication to the College of Fine and Applied Arts community.
About the Department of Military Science and Leadership
One of seven departments housed in the College of Fine and Applied Arts, the Department of Military Science and Leadership at Appalachian State University focuses on providing men and women the best available training and experience in the art of leadership. This program includes instruction to develop self-discipline, physical stamina, and poise, as well as the organizational and motivational skills that contribute to success in any career.
Major Jones and Captain Sam Snelson
Major Jones and Captain Sam Snelson