Dr. John Paul Jameson honored for excellence in public service
Dr. JP Jameson of Appalachian State University is a winner of the 2025 Governor James E. Holshouser, Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service.
The award recognizes faculty who exemplify the UNC System’s commitment to service and community engagement. He received the honor Thursday from the University of North Carolina Board of Governors.
A professor of psychology, Jameson has built access to mental health services in rural schools in Alleghany and Ashe counties, providing evidence-based assessment, therapy and crisis services for children and families. His school-based clinics have served hundreds of students since they were established.
Jameson also led community-based efforts to prevent firearm suicides in rural areas, especially in youth populations – efforts that have gained state and national attention.
In nominating Jameson for the award, App State Chancellor Heather Norris said: “For more than a decade, his work has not merely benefited a local area; it has profoundly impacted the landscape of mental health access and crisis prevention across the entire northwestern region of North Carolina…His deep commitment to the people of rural Appalachia is evident in every initiative he undertakes.”
Jameson’s sustainable, data-driven mental health programs and crisis prevention strategies have been recognized with research grants and faculty awards at App State. He has been praised for his willingness to personally care for his community, including during Hurricane Helene, when he used his Ram 1500 pickup truck to deliver food and supplies in Ashe County immediately after the storm, then worked evenings and weekends for months at a large donation drop center.
“Dr. Jameson embodies the spirit of the Holshouser Award, putting service at the center of his commitment to our university and our people,” said University of North Carolina System President Peter Hans. “He has improved the quality of mental health care for his fellow citizens in northwestern North Carolina, while inspiring his students to take up the mission of service.” “Dr. Jameson has a heart for service, and we couldn’t be prouder to honor him today,” said Board of Governors Chair Wendy Murphy. “His work has had an impact on children and young people across the mountain region, and we are thankful for his dedication.”