Six faculty, staff and students in the Walker College of Business were celebrated for exemplary contributions to the success of Appalachian State University and its community during an Awards of Distinction ceremony on April 28, 2026.
The recipients exemplify exceptional Mountaineer merit and inspire others through their achievements.
Justin Kent, College Teaching Award
Dr. Justin Kent, assistant professor in the Department of Management in the Walker College, was honored with the Appalachian State College Award for his commitment to teaching and mentorship.
Since joining the App State faculty in 2020, Kent has led curriculum redesign efforts and developed new courses focused on entrepreneurship. He also oversees internships and practicums while serving as a faculty mentor to students across the college.
Cele Burt, Staff Excellence Award
Cele Burt, associate director of graduate business programs in the Walker College, was recognized with the Staff Excellence Award for outstanding service and leadership.
A member of the App State staff since 2015 and an alumna of the university, Burt leads MBA student advising and experiential learning initiatives that directly support student success. She has also played a key role in developing AI‑focused graduate programs, helping to position the Walker College at the forefront of innovation.
W.H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion
Kevin Eller
Dr. Kevin Eller, professor of accounting and director of the internship program in the Department of Accounting, earned a W.H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion in recognition of his lasting impact on students and the accounting profession.
A member of the App State faculty since 2008 and a two‑time App State alumnus, Eller has demonstrated sustained commitment to student success, including achieving a 100% internship placement rate for qualified students.
Asher Fazal
Asher Fazal, a senior management major in sustainable business in the Walker College, received the Plemmons Leadership Medallion for leadership grounded in service and global engagement.
A Plemmons Leadership Scholar and Alternative Service Experience peer leader, Fazal serves as co‑president of the Student Sustainable Business Association and has led global service trips to Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic.
Next, Fazal will begin the Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics program.
Ben Tugwell
Ben Tugwell, a senior accounting major in the Walker College, was awarded the Plemmons Leadership Medallion for his extensive involvement and leadership in student organizations.
Tugwell serves as a student director of orientation and a peer mentor for first‑year success courses. He has also held leadership roles as treasurer for the Appalachian Musical Theatre Club and Lambda‑Zeta (Alpha Psi Omega) and as a Club Council leader supporting more than 400 student organizations.
Next, Tugwell will begin App State's MBA program.
David Itson, Ronny L. Brooks Leadership Award
David Itson, a senior accounting major in the Walker College, received the Ronny L. Brooks Leadership Award for exemplary student leadership and service.
Itson has been actively involved in campus life as a leader in the Black Student Association and Student Government Association and is the founder of Fourth Gen Academic Support, an organization serving K–12 students. Itson is a 2026 Holland Fellow. Itson’s leadership reflects a strong dedication to community impact, academic excellence and integrity.
Clockwise from back left are Justin Kent, David Itson, Kevin Eller, Asher Fazal, Ben Tugwell and Cele Burt
Photo booth image of WCOB winners