App State's Dr. JP Jameson honored for advancing rural mental health care across Western NC

February 27, 2026 - 21:28

Dr. John Paul “JP” Jameson, a professor of psychology at Appalachian State University, has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Gov. James E. Holshouser Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service. The award, presented by the University of North Carolina System Board of Governors, highlights Dr. Jameson's profound and lasting impact on expanding mental health care access in the region's rural communities.

For years, Jameson has dedicated his career to bridging the critical gap between psychological services and the populations that need them most in Western North Carolina. His work focuses on innovative, community-integrated solutions that address the unique challenges faced by rural areas, which often suffer from provider shortages and logistical barriers to care.

Through his leadership and direct service, Jameson has been instrumental in developing and sustaining programs that train future mental health professionals specifically for rural practice. His efforts ensure that high-quality, evidence-based care reaches underserved counties, fundamentally improving the well-being of countless residents. The award celebrates this sustained commitment to public service and its tangible benefits for the health and resilience of communities across the mountain region.