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In Brief: ASU, MountainTrue announce hires; Koontz graduates from Wofford

The Watauga Democrat - 6/13/2017

Blaise named ASU associate VC for equity, diversity, compliance

BOONE - Jordyne Blaise will be the next associate vice chancellor for equity, diversity and compliance at Appalachian State University. She will begin work July 1, having most recently served as the inaugural director of community engagement and equity at Harvard Law School.

"Appalachian is committed to developing and allocating resources to the fundamental task of creating a diverse campus culture, and to ensuring that all students, faculty and staff are protected from discrimination in any form," Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Darrell P. Kruger said. "Jordyne is eminently qualified for this important leadership position. She brings not only valuable career experience - both as a lawyer and advocate - but also a personal passion for justice and equity."

Blaise will report to the provost and be responsible for the university's compliance with laws, regulations and guidelines related to affirmative action, equal opportunity and disability services. In addition, Blaise will also oversee the Office of Disability Services and serve as the Title IX coordinator. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity.

Blaise said she was excited to be joining Appalachian's leadership team and called its Office of Equity, Diversity and Compliance, which she will oversee, "a phenomenal group."

"I am drawn to this work because I believe in the transformative power of social change," she said. "Appalachian's commitment to global citizenship and creating a sustainable future fits quite nicely with my desire to create a more compassionate and more just world."

Hill named Watauga Riverkeeper

VALLE CRUCIS - Andy Hill has been named the MountainTrue High Country regional director and Watauga Riverkeeper. A meet and greet will take place at Valle Crucis Community Park on Sunday, June 18, for a river cleanup, dedication ceremony for the water monitoring site located at the park and a community picnic.

The cleanup will begin at 3 p.m., and the site dedication will take place at 6 p.m. Cleanup participants will be rewarded for their hard work with some BBQ and beer courtesy of Appalachian Mountain Brewery. Registration is free and helps with a headcount for food and beer. Register at www.eventbrite.com/e/watauga-riverkeeper-river-clean-up-tickets-34861549834.

Those who can't make the river cleanup, are invited to come by later to meet Hill; the event is free and open to the public, but donations will be accepted.

MountainTrue and the Watauga Riverkeeper is grateful for the support of Appalachian Mountain Brewery, which focuses on building relationships with our community, sustainable business practices and supporting local non-profits.

MountainTrue is Western North Carolina's advocate for environmental stewardship. MountainTrue is home to the Broad River Alliance, French Broad Riverkeeper, Green Riverkeeper and Watauga Riverkeeper - the protectors and defenders of their respective watersheds.

Koontz Jr. receives degree from Wofford College

SPARTANBURG, S.C. - Lonnis Andrew Koontz Jr. received a bachelor of arts degree in international affairs. Koontz is from Banner Elk.

Wofford College, established in 1854, is a four-year, residential liberal arts college located in Spartanburg, S.C.

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