The Division of University Operations at Appalachian State University serves as a backbone to essential resources and services for the campus. App State operations staff work collaboratively across campus dining, housing, safety, transportation, communications, and facilities to create a seamless, supportive and student-centered campus environment.
Vice Chancellor
J.J. Brown brings over 30 years of progressive leadership in higher education including the past 15 years at App State, cultivating a modern campus rooted in student success and operational excellence. In his current role as chief operating officer and executive vice chancellor, he oversees a broad portfolio including the Appalachian State University Police Department, Facilities Operations, Environmental Health, Safety and Emergency Management, the Office of Human Resources, University Housing, Campus Dining, and University Communications, ensuring that systems across the university run safely, efficiently and smoothly.
Brown’s commitment to student well-being began when he joined App State in 2010 as associate vice chancellor for student development and dean of students, later serving as vice chancellor of student affairs. Previously, he spent nine years at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, as associate dean of students, enriching student engagement and leadership programs.
Since stepping into his role as chief operating officer, Brown has led the integration of critical services to streamline processes that support operational efficiency and elevate student experiences, while working to align the division’s functions with App State’s strategic priorities.
Brown holds a bachelor’s degree in speech communication and a master’s degree in college student personnel from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
- Facilities Operations – Maintaining campus infrastructure and grounds.
- New River Light and Power – Providing utilities campus wide efficiently.
- Sustainability and Energy Management – Leading campus energy use and efficiency efforts.
Division Leadership
Matt Dull
Deputy Chief Operating Officer
828-262-6830
dullmc@appstate.edu- Appalachian Real Estate Development Corporation
- Campus Dining – Providing nutritious, diverse dining experiences.
- Conference and Event Services – Coordinating campus-wide event logistics.
- Parking and Transportation – Managing parking, transit and mobility.
- Planning, Design and Construction – Shaping future campus spaces thoughtfully.
- University Housing – Providing quality residential living experiences.
Joshua Bolick
Senior Director, Finance and Systems for Campus Services
bolickjd@appstate.edu- Campus Services / CS Express – Fast, efficient on campus service solutions.
- Campus Store – University branded merchandise and essentials.
- University Post Office - Managing campus mail and package services.
Johnny Brown
Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police
828-262-2150
brownjm@appstate.edu- Appalachian State University Police Department – Ensuring safety and campus security.
- Environmental Health, Safety and Emergency Management – Protecting health, safety and readiness.
Sean Womack
Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Human Resources
828-262-6482
womacksd@appstate.edu- Office of Human Resources – Supporting staff and talent development.
Donna Gallo
Interim Director, University Communications
828-262-8604
gallodl@appstate.edu- University Communications – Amplifying App State’s voice and brand.