Center of Excellence for Appalachian Studies and Services

History:

The Center for Appalachian Studies and Services is a part of the Department of Appalachian Studies that supports community initiatives, cultural preservation, and economic development projects across Appalachia. The Center’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by the people and communities in Appalachia earned it a designation as a Center of Excellence in 1984 as part of Gov. Lamar Alexander’s Better Schools program, an honor that no other regional studies center has yet achieved. This designation is earned through a competitive process and recognizes institutions of higher education for outstanding research and innovation in their field. The Center later earned the designation of Distinguished Center of Excellence through its dedication to community-focused projects, conducting research, and fostering sustainable solutions across the region.

Mission:

The Center’s mission is to deepen understanding of Appalachia while serving the region through research, education, preservation, and community engagement. This is achieved through the design and implementation of initiatives that promote community development. The Center’s students, staff, and faculty collaborate closely with local communities and the broader Appalachian region to drive growth and positive change. It supports educational programs, research, and scholarship focused on Appalachian culture, while helping future generations navigate its ever-evolving nature through creative expression in music, art, media, and innovation.

As we look toward the future, the Center remains committed to ensuring that the past is preserved and not forgotten. By documenting and safeguarding Appalachia’s diverse cultural heritage — both tangible and intangible — it works to ensure that the region’s music, art, and enduring traditions are honored for generations to come.

Units:

Over the decades, the number of community-driven projects involving the Center has grown exponentially. To better serve Appalachia, the Center expanded to consist of four components, each focused on specific aspects of community engagement.

 

Click on one of the links below to learn more about these components and the initiatives they have undertaken.