The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University recently hosted the Appalachian Research in Business Symposium (ARBS) on the university’s Boone campus April 16-17.
The annual symposium provides a forum for sharing business research and building cross-institutional partnerships.
“ARBS continues to strengthen the research culture within the Walker College of Business while creating meaningful connections among faculty, students and scholars from across the region,” said Dr. Jason Xiong, App State's associate dean for advanced studies in business and ARBS 2026 conference chair. “As App State advances its work as an R2 university, the symposium provides an important platform for sharing high-impact research, developing new collaborations and engaging students in the research process.”
Participating Universities, Faculty and Student Researchers
Work from approximately 90 faculty and students was presented, representing Appalachian State University, Eastern Kentucky University, East Tennessee State University, Marshall University, Radford University and Western Carolina University. Research presentations spanned disciplines including management, finance, marketing, analytics and information systems.
“ARBS provides opportunities for scholars at different stages of their careers to exchange ideas, receive constructive feedback and develop new research partnerships,” said Dr. Tanga Mohr, director of research for the college. “The range and quality of this year’s presentations illustrate the commitment to research across our region.”
Mohr added that App State students were heavily involved, with many serving as presenters, facilitators and volunteers. Students also participated in an inaugural Dean's Club Strategic Business Case Competition, presenting their final work to a panel of judges at ARBS.
Related: Students showcase strategic thinking in 2026 Dean’s Club Strategic Business Competition
The symposium featured remarks from Vice Chancellor of Research and Innovation Christine Hendren and Walker College Dean Sandra Vannoy, as well as a keynote address by App State Alumnus Jared Rorrer ’98 ’00, Managing Director at Accenture.
AI and the Role of Universities
Rorrer spoke about the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce and the critical role universities play in preparing students and communities for change. He emphasized that while AI is transforming how work gets done, human judgment, creativity and ethical decision‑making remain central.
“It’s not going to replace you—it just makes you better,” said Rorrer. “The difference between a super‑smart person and someone using AI is very small compared to someone who truly embraces it. When I lean into AI and then lean back as a human, I am better. That’s the key.”
For faculty members, Rorrer highlighted the responsibility to lead by example as AI reshapes industries and careers. “Your own skills are going to matter. You are the beacon of light for your students who are learning how to embrace AI,” he said, encouraging faculty to guide students in using AI thoughtfully and responsibly. “What matters is how they use them – ethically, responsibly and with purpose.”
Photos from the Event
View photos from the event at the Appalachian Research in Business Symposium Google Photos album.
Business Research at App State
ARBS underscores App State’s commitment to scholarship and collaboration as an R2 research university. The event strengthens research networks, supports high-impact scholarship and advances the Walker College of Business’s role in addressing workforce and economic challenges across Appalachia.
Jared Rorer speaking at ARBS 2026
ARBS 2026