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One Mercer

THE INAUGURATION OF

Penny L. Elkins, Ph.D.

AS MERCER'S 19TH PRESIDENT

United in Mission
Amplified for impact

Please join us in celebrating the historic inauguration of Penny L. Elkins, Ph.D., as Mercer University’s 19th president and the first woman to lead the institution since its founding in 1833.

We invite our global Mercer community to join us for this livestreamed event. Learn more about our Countdown to 19, featuring celebratory events throughout October, and opportunities to share your words of encouragement for President Elkins and Mercer’s bright next chapter.
10/29/2026
Mercer University President Dr. Penny L. Elkins with Student Government Association representatives and students.

Penny L. Elkins, Ph.D.

President, Mercer University

Penny L. Elkins, Ph.D., became Mercer University’s 19th president on January 1, 2026. She is the first Mercer graduate to lead the private, nationally ranked research university in nearly five decades, the first “Double Bear”— earning both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Mercer — to hold the role since the 1950s, and the first woman to serve as president in Mercer’s nearly 200-year history.

With a career in education spanning more than 30 years, President Elkins has built a reputation as a transformational leader and recognized expert in developing effective teams. She earned tenure and holds the academic rank of Professor in Mercer’s Tift College of Education, and in 2007, was appointed as the Fred L. Miles Endowed Chair of Educational Leadership.

More About President Elkins

"Congratulations to President Elkins! I am thrilled to get to know her better. The first time she came to the Macon-Mercer Symphony as Mercer's president, she came over to me during intermission to ask questions and offer ideas. I thought it was so thoughtful and showed me her level of care for Mercer's programs and facilities. Looking forward to her leadership!"

Julia A. Morrison

"Congratulations, President Elkins! We are excited to see the vision, energy, and opportunities you bring to Mercer. Wishing you a rewarding journey as you lead our university and inspire the next generation of students and educators!"

Dr. Maria Thurston
College of Pharmacy

"Thank you, President Elkins, for your genuine support of Mercer’s staff. Your appreciation for the work we do and your commitment to making staff members feel valued are deeply meaningful. Mercer is incredibly fortunate to have your thoughtful, inspiring leadership guiding us into the future."

Jan Crocker
Marketing Communications

"Congratulations, President Elkins! I love the energy you bring to Mercer, and I’m so excited about the future under your leadership. I look forward to this next chapter."

Jennifer Nelson
School of Medicine

"Mercer University School of Law extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Penny Elkins on her appointment as Mercer University’s new president."

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School of Law

"Congratulations on your well-deserved appointment as the first female president of Mercer University. I am so grateful for your kindness, innovative vision, and student-focused approach to leadership. The future is bright!"

Vicki Britt, Ph.D.
Dean, School of Engineering

"Congratulations to President Elkins on this historic moment in Mercer’s history! Thank you for your leadership and for all you do to shape the lives of Mercerians. We look forward to celebrating this special milestone with the Mercer community!"

Chloe Paulk

"Congratulations, President Elkins! Your leadership and vision mark an exciting new chapter for Mercer. Wishing you great success as you lead Mercer forward and build upon the University’s strong foundation."

Matthew Smith
Marketing Communications

"Wishing President Elkins all the best as she leads our students, faculty, and staff into a bright, ambitious future, advancing education, research, and service to our communities."

Dr. Clint Canal
College of Pharmacy

Share a short message of congratulations, encouragement or well wishes for President Elkins as she begins this new chapter of leadership at Mercer.

Well Wishes
Inauguration Crest

Mercer University School of Law extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Penny Elkins on her appointment as Mercer University's new president.

As a law school grounded in service, leadership and a commitment to the communities we serve, we look forward to the leadership, vision and opportunities that lie ahead.

The future of Mercer is bright, and the Law School is proud to be part of it. As One Mercer, united in mission, we look forward to working together to build on Mercer's strong foundation, advance its enduring mission and create new opportunities for our students, faculty, staff and the communities we serve.

Congratulations, President Elkins. We are delighted to be working with you and look forward to all that we will accomplish together.

School of Law