The winner of the 2024 Exemplary Enduring WAC Program (11+ years) is Writing Across the Curriculum program at Appalachian State University
The WAC program at Appalachian State University is most impressive and truly stands as the epitome of an enduring WAC program that not only challenges students with its Vertical Writing Model that accompanies and “grows with” students all four years, but also faculty as they work with writing-intensive curriculum anchored in Writing Studies. The Program understands the needs of a diverse student body with diverse needs and focuses on how to make that student body more resilient in and through their writing.
As a committee, we were impressed with the breadth of the program, specifically the Vertical Writing Model, the free academic conference offered by WAC to local colleges and universities, and the attention to transfer students and their needs. The vastness of the Vertical Writing Model, so integrated within the General Education Curriculum, shows the eagerness of the administrators to reach students through all stages of their college experience. We appreciate the forward-thinking, data-driven approach the program offers to not only its students but also its faculty.
Overall, WAC at AppState is an example of a truly enduring program that serves as a helpful model for other programs engaging in similar types of work. The VWM Model has grown to receive national recognition, and the WAC program at Appalachian State University has served as supportive colleagues to other WAC professionals embarking on similar work, showcasing their impact not only on their own campus but on our broader WAC community. What an honor to recognize the Writing Across the Curriculum program at Appalachian State University as an Exemplary Enduring WAC Program award winner this year!
This award is jointly awarded by AWAC and the WAC Clearinghouse. It will be presented at IWAC 2025.