My name is Doug Thompson, I’m currently leading the Appalachian GEAR UP services team at App State University. In this role, my team and I serve ten rural school districts throughout western North Carolina. We provide services and consultation to each district in an effort to foster STEM education as well as prepare students for a postsecondary experience. Historically I’ve served a variety of education roles such as a teacher, technology facilitator, and professional development specialist. I’m looking forward to this opportunity within EPFP and finding my voice within the advocacy field.