Appalachian State University plans to resume classes following Hurricane Helene damage

BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University Interim Chancellor Heather Norris announced classes would resume on Wednesday, October 16. 

The announcement comes after Norris met with leaders from Watauga County, the town of Boone and the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce about the timing of a possible return. 

Classes have been canceled since Hurricane Helene made landfall in the western part of the state leaving cars submerged underwater and buildings on campus and across town damaged from flooding. 

In her statement, Norris acknowledged that students, faculty and staff are still managing the consequences of Hurricane Helene and that the school would continue to support all who have been impacted by the storm. 

“Students, faculty and staff who need financial assistance due to missed work, lost or damaged housing, missing items, or other impacts of Hurricane Helene should visit the university’s Disaster Relief Hub in Room 324 of Plemmons Student Union, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” Norris wrote. 

The resource hub also includes counseling and psychological services, case management, emergency management, financial aid, off-campus student services, the student legal clinic and insurance guidance

Norris also noted that some areas of Watauga County and surrounding areas are still without power, communications connectivity and fully accessible roadways. As students, faculty and staff return to the Boone area, Norris offered a list of tips to help. 

• Limit the use of individual vehicles to the greatest extent possible.
• Take advantage of rideshare opportunities.
• Limit nonessential travel to areas outside the town limits, especially the western part of the county.
• Be mindful that the Town and County
• Support local businesses.
• Participate in university-organized volunteer opportunities.
• For parents and family members helping students return to the area, local leaders have asked that you make this a day trip, leaving local hotels available for essential personnel and those who have been displaced from their homes.

Norris said the campus will also continue to provide hot meals to anyone in need with no charge through 8 p.m. Friday, October 11. 

The campus is still accepting donations through the university’s Disaster Relief Fund.