The Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative (ACRI) hosted the 25th annual capstone research symposium, bringing together 100 students from 13 Appalachian colleges and universities to share field-based research focused on local and regional economic development.
Organized by the Center for Appalachian Studies and Services at East Tennessee State University, participating schools offer a for-credit seminar where students develop projects designed to address the needs of their communities and align with ARC’s investment priorities.
Since 2001, more than 3,200 college and graduate students have participated in ACRI, many of whom now work in community and economic development roles across Appalachia.
Thank you to our 2025 ACRI participants:
- Alfred State College, Alfred, NY
- Appalachian State University, Boone, NC
- East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA
- Marietta College, Marietta, OH
- Marshall University, Huntington, WV
- Ohio University, Athens, OH
- Radford University, Radford, VA
- Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
- Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
- Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA
Learn more about ACRI and our academies and institutes.
Applications Open for 2026 ACRI Participants
Applications are now open for the 2026 program. Colleges and universities interested in participating can review the notice of solicitation for applications (NOSA). Applications are due April 10, 2026.