College of Fine and Applied Arts

Keith Martin , John M. Blackburn Distinguished Professor of Theatre and Dance, Retires
May 14, 2026

After more than five decades of extraordinary leadership in the arts, Keith Martin will retire from his role as the John M. Blackburn Distinguished Professor of Theatre at Appalachian State University. His career spans 50+ years, over 450 productions, and acclaimed work across theatre, dance,...

A record 4,300+ App State graduates are ready for what’s next
May 14, 2026

Marianne Adams, Theatre and Dance, Retires After 44 Years
May 13, 2026

We bid a fond farewell to Marianne Adams. Marianne has been teaching at Appalachian since 1982.

As a Dance Studies professor at Appalachian, she has created over thirty-five new courses in the curriculum, directed the dance program, and created the Dance Honors program.