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Building Tomorrow's Insurance Leaders

At App State’s Brantley Risk & Insurance Center, we prepare tomorrow’s leaders for dynamic careers in risk management and insurance. Through hands-on learning and industry partnerships, students gain the skills and connections to thrive, from classrooms to careers.

Center Objectives

Specific objectives of the Center are as follows:

  • Involve students with the insurance industry.
  • Assist and provide students with opportunities to participate in professional designation and licensing programs.
  • Encourage involvement by inviting industry leaders to participate in classes and speak to student organizations.
  • Support research and faculty development.
  • Direct research activities toward problems and questions of interest to the insurance industry.
  • Assist the industry in the design and delivery of training and continuing education programs.
  • Help educate the public about the role of insurance in modern life and the function and activities of the insurance industry.
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Why is effective risk management important to society?

“Effective risk management and a healthy insurance market lead to a more resilient society and faster recovery from a disaster. If we do our jobs well, it will help individuals live more productive and happy lives.”

Read More of the Q & A with Brantley Center, Managing Director, Dr. David Marlett

Latest News

App State's Brantley Risk & Insurance Center helps coordinate career fairs on App State's campus
February 4, 2026 • 11:15 AM
IA Magazine has highlighted insights from Dr. David Marlett, managing director of Appalachian State University’s Brantley Risk and Insurance Center, in its recent feature on the insurance industry’s growing talent shortage. The article, “How the Insurance Industry Is Tackling the …
Zach Needles in suit, over a decorative background of App State graduation hats
December 18, 2025 • 3:06 PM
When Zach Needles transferred from North Carolina State University to Appalachian State University, he didn’t know anyone, but he quickly found a family in the Walker College of Business. “The App State community, the Walker College of Business, is the …
Dr. David Marlett
October 21, 2025 • 4:24 PM
Outstanding students, faculty, and staff were recognized for their contributions to global engagement and sustainable business during the Walker College of Business’s annual Global Good Conference. The awards celebrated seven who exemplify the values of sustainability, equity, and global citizenship. …
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Join Gamma Iota Sigma

Gamma Iota Sigma (GIS) is an international professional collegiate insurance organization sponsored by the Brantley Center. Learn more about the App State GIS chapter and join today!