Graduate Student Spotlights
The Cratis D. Williams School of Graduate Studies showcases our graduate students' remarkabe achievements, creative endeavors, research, service, and experiences. Each spotlight offers a look at their academic journey, projects, and contributions to App State and their field. We celebrate our talented graduate students and their passion for their studies and contributions to the larger community.
Grad Student Profile:
Jonathan Culpepper
Jonathan is a Raleigh native and is pursuing his Master of Science in Technology with a concentration in Sustainable Building Design & Construction. His interest in the environment developed during his childhood as he participated in camping and canoeing in Ashe County, NC. During his undergraduate education at Appalachian State, Jonathan participated in the Solar Decathlon Design Challenge through the U.S. Department of Energy which developed his interest in pursuing graduate education focused on sustainable design. He values the hands on experience which is prioritized in his program.
Jonathan's research addresses the complex nature of carbon emission reduction of concrete construction. Cement, an ingredient in concrete, contributes 8% of global carbon admissions. Jonathan looks at ratios of replacement up to 25%, a combination of 15% fly ash and 10% biochar. In January of 2025, Jonathan presented this research during App State's 3MT (Three Minute Thesis) competition and was awarded first place. His success came from several weeks of content development and practice. He credits his girlfriend with helping him prepare to meet the three minute time limit.
After graduation, Jonathan plans to work with Terracon, a civil engineering firm. He will serve as a building enclosure consultant assisting architects, engineers, and builders. Jonathan is excited to work through his passion of building durable, resilient, and high performing structures.