The Appalachian Research in Business Symposium (ARBS) will be held on April 17 on Appalachian State University's Boone campus, with a reception scheduled for the evening of April 16.
The symposium brings together six institutes of higher education to highlight the strength of regional academic collaboration. Universities across Appalachia share common goals: advancing knowledge, strengthening economic and community development, and preparing the next generation of business leaders and researchers.
“Events like ARBS create opportunities for scholars to share new ideas, receive feedback on ongoing research and build partnerships that often lead to journal publications, grant proposals and broader research collaborations,” said Dr. Jason Xiong, associate professor and associate dean for advanced studies in business at the Walker College of Business. “The symposium also reinforces the importance of sustained partnerships among Appalachian universities working together to address regional and global business challenges.”
Many of today’s most important research challenges require interdisciplinary collaboration, Xiong noted. Business research increasingly intersects with fields such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship and innovation, economic development and sustainability, Xiong said.
ARBS will include a strong set of student research presentations integrated throughout the concurrent sessions. Student authors will participate from several programs, including the MBA, MS in Applied Data Analytics (MSADA), IOHRM program, and the Walker College of Business Honors program.
The student presentations span a range of topics, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, accounting, finance, marketing, management and regional economic issues.
“Many of these projects are applied and industry-relevant, reflecting the emphasis in our graduate and honors programs on experiential learning and research with practical impact,” Xiong said.
Registration and Attendance
While the symposium will not accommodate drop-ins, registration will be available on the morning of the event (April 17). University students can register for $30, and App State faculty who are not in the Walker College of Business can attend for half price ($62.50). Registrations can also be accommodated after the deadline using the link on the ARBS website.
About the Walker College of Business
The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University delivers transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact their communities, both locally and globally. The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. Enrolling nearly 5,000 students, including more than 4,500 undergraduates across 11 majors, the Walker College of Business has the highest full-time undergraduate enrollment in the University of North Carolina System. App State’s Walker College is accredited by AACSB International — the premier global accrediting body for business schools. Learn more at https://business.appstate.edu.
About Research in the Walker College of Business
Faculty in App State's Walker College of Business produce and disseminate extensive research through both academic and professional communities. From 2021-25, faculty published 458 peer-reviewed academic journal articles, 63 conference proceedings, and made 475 conference and professional presentations. In total, faculty have produced 1,078 intellectual contributions in the last five years. Approximately 502 intellectual contributions were made in basic or discovery research, 453 in applied or integrative research, and 123 contributions in teaching and learning research. The college encourages research collaboration across departments, campus and other institutions, and promotes student involvement in faculty-led research. Learn more at https://business.appstate.edu/research.
Appalachian Research in Business Symposium strengthens regional collaboration
Researchers in Peacock Hall