In the College of Fine and Applied Arts (CFAA), we take immense pride in the remarkable achievements of our students. Rooted in a student-first, transdisciplinary approach and strengthened by experiential learning, our graduates embody the spirit of creativity, resilience, and community engagement that defines our college. As they step into their professional lives, we celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to the impact they will continue to make in their fields and beyond.
Malia McAllister
From Wilmington, NC, Malia McAllister discovered her passion for videography and storytelling while pursuing her BS in Electronic Media/Broadcasting with a minor in Documentary Studies. Her time at App State was marked by extraordinary professional opportunities, including traveling with the Predator ProBilliard Series and working as a camera operator and technical director for the World Championship Billiard TV broadcast. Malia credits her professors for encouraging her to explore these experiences, and she will continue her journey as a videographer with University Communications at App State while traveling for Predator. She leaves with gratitude and pride in being a Mountaineer.
Photo by University Communications
Ella Snapp
Graduating summa cum laude with a BA in Broadcasting & Communications and a minor in Vocal Performance, Ella Snapp has distinguished herself as a storyteller and multimedia creator. Through her work with Appalachian Weekly News, Ella honed her craft in journalism, sports coverage, and the arts, building a portfolio that reflects clarity and creative vision. Her professional website, www.ellasnappmedia.com, showcases her dedication to authentic, on-location reporting. After graduation, Ella will embark on her next chapter as a communications professional, traveling and interviewing with a sharp, imaginative lens.
Photo provided by Ella Snapp
Joy Siler
Joy Siler's journey at App State has been one of resilience and discovery. Originally part of the class of 2021, Joy took a leave of absence during Covid to explore new interests, ultimately becoming a certified comprehensive Pilates instructor. Her experiences took her from Asheville to Philadelphia to New Zealand, before returning to Boone to complete her BA in Theatre Arts with a concentration in Performance and a minor in Somatic Sustainability. Joy plans to remain in Boone for now, teaching at Beyond Pilates, while awaiting the next adventure life reveals.
Photo provided by Joy Siler
Erin Rice
Erin Rice's time at App State exemplifies perseverance and leadership. Despite the challenges of Hurricane Helene, which destroyed her apartment and car, Erin graduated a semester early with a BS in Public Relations. She served on the executive board of the Public Relations Student Society of America and led a team of interns to organize the Department of Communication's signature alumni and student networking event, achieving record participation. Erin credits the App State community for shaping her experience and encourages future Mountaineers to embrace all the opportunities the university offers.
Photo by University Communications
John-Henry Lomax Barwick
From Raleigh, NC, John-Henry Lomax Barwick graduated with a degree in Sustainable Technology. His time at App State was filled with adventure and service, from learning to climb and kayak to volunteering with the Banner Elk Fire Department. His family proudly celebrated his graduation ceremony, reflecting on the supportive environment of learning and exploration that App State provided. John-Henry leaves with gratitude for the university and the community that helped shape his journey.
Photo provided by John-Henry Lomax
We are honored to celebrate these graduates. Their stories reflect the transformative power of experiential learning and the supportive environment at App State. As they move forward into their professional lives, we are confident they will continue to inspire, innovate, and make meaningful contributions to the world.
Fall 2025 Commencement Thumb
Fall 2025 Commencement Thumb