BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University is proud to announce that Sandy Zufall, a senior Studio Art major with an emphasis in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design, has been awarded a 2026 Educational Endowment Scholarship from the Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG).
Zufall is one of only ten students across North America to receive this competitive honor for the 2026–2027 cycle. Her award-winning work, titled "Blue Mother," was highlighted by the selection committee for its technical skill and conceptual depth. This object was created in Senior Lecture, Lilith Nielander’s Enameling course that focuses on the 13th Century technique of using vitreous enamel to create colorful designs in copper and fine silver. The SNAG Educational Endowment provides critical financial support to emerging artists and professionals looking to broaden their education and practice within the jewelry and metalsmithing field.
This achievement marks the second consecutive year an Appalachian State student has been recognized with this national award. Zufall follows in the footsteps of Alissa Goble, who received the SNAG Educational Endowment Scholarship in 2025.
Sandy Zufall's Blue Mother
"To have our students recognized at this level two years in a row is a testament to the dedication and skill of students within our Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design program," said Frankie Flood, Professor of Art at Appalachian State. "Sandy’s work consistently pushes the boundaries of the medium, and this scholarship will provide her with invaluable resources to continue her artistic development."
About the Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG): SNAG is the premier organization for jewelry and metalsmithing in North America. Founded in 1969, its mission is to advance jewelry and metalsmithing by inspiring creativity, encouraging education, and fostering community through conferences, exhibitions, and its flagship publication, Metalsmith magazine.
About Appalachian State University Metalsmithing & Jewelry Design: The Metalsmithing & Jewelry Design area at Appalachian State University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in traditional and contemporary metalworking techniques. The program emphasizes the development of a personal creative voice through rigorous studio practice, technical mastery, and critical inquiry.
https://snagmetalsmith.org/2026/03/2026-educational-endowment-scholarships/
About the Department of Art
One of seven departments within the College of Fine and Applied Arts, the Department of Art at Appalachian State University prepares students to explore art, identity, expression, and creative problem-solving, while challenging them to push beyond their previous limits by discovering new connections to culture. The department offers degrees in art and visual culture, art education, graphic design, studio art, photography, and graphic communications management, with minors in art history, studio art, photography, and graphic communications management. Learn more at art.appstate.edu.
About the College of Fine and Applied Arts
Appalachian State University's College of Fine and Applied Arts is a dynamic and innovative group of seven academic departments, bringing together a variety of perspectives, experiences, and real-world education to provide unique opportunities for student success. The college has more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate majors. Its departments are Applied Design, Art, Communication, Military Science and Leadership, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment, and Theatre and Dance.
About Appalachian State University
As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education for all.
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