Since 2001, over 3,000 students from 31 colleges and universities across Appalachia have participated in the Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative (ACRI), formerly known as the Appalachian Teaching Project (ATP). Administered by East Tennessee State University, ACRI is an applied research training program for Appalachian college students to support economic development initiatives for their communities.
Seeking ACRI Schools for 2024
ARC is seeking ACRI applicants for the fall 2024 semester!
Students of participating ACRI schools are enrolled in a for-credit academic course to design and lead research projects in Appalachian communities to address regional challenges.
As a finale for the coursework, students and their faculty sponsors travel to Washington, D.C., to present their work to other student delegations, ARC leadership, and community leaders at the Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative Capstone Symposium.
2023 Participants
20 Years of ACRI
In 2021, East Tennessee State University’s Center of Excellence for Appalachian Studies and Services celebrated 20 years of coordinating ACRI.