Jeannie Zipperer, assistant dean of students for the Law School
Because her father served in the US Army for 22 years, Jeannie Zipperer, assistant dean of student affairs, traveled around and relocated quite often as a child. However, she says her family and her heritage are from Jumping Branch, West Virginia, a small community that played a significant role in shaping her values and aspirations.
She is a 1998 graduate of Concord University in Athens, West Virginia, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in business administration. Two years later, she earned her master’s degree in political science with a focus on state and local elections, from Virginia Tech. She earned her law degree from West Virginia College of Law in 2003.
When did you know you wanted to be a lawyer/what led you to make the decision?
My journey to becoming a lawyer was a long and gradual one. It all started in the 7th grade during a mock trial in our civics class. The whole project fascinated me and sparked my interest in the legal field. I began watching every legal movie I could find. However, coming from a family without any lawyers or college graduates, the idea of pursuing a career in law seemed far-fetched.
As a first-generation college student, navigating my educational path was a unique challenge, but with my family’s encouragement, I persevered. My journey was further enriched by being a McNair Scholar, receiving recognition for my undergraduate research on campaign finance reform, and presenting my work on party realignment in West Virginia at the Southern Political Science Conference as a graduate student. These achievements gave me the courage to consider law school seriously. After completing my master’s degree, I realized that my hard work and determination had prepared me for this next step. So, I decided to apply and pursue my dream of becoming a lawyer.
Did you practice law or move right into the academic setting?
After graduating from law school, my first job was with West Virginia Senior Legal Aid. This role provided a great opportunity to serve a vulnerable population in West Virginia. I was also involved with the Disability and Elder Abuse Joint Taskforce in the state. The experience was deeply fulfilling, and I’m proud of the work we accomplished. My transition to higher education occurred when I moved to Georgia and began working at Georgia Military College (GMC) as a professor of political science and paralegal studies. I became increasingly interested in accreditation and higher education policy and serviced in various roles.
Why did you choose academics over practicing law?
While I did stop practicing law in the traditional sense, I never really stopped using my legal knowledge and background. That’s the wonderful thing about having a JD—it can open doors to a multitude of career paths. I found academia to be a perfect fit for me because it allowed me to use my legal expertise in different and impactful ways.
What was your role at GMC?
My roles there included professor of political science and paralegal studies, academic department chair and division chair, QEP chair, SACSCOC liaison, director of staff with oversight of the communication department, and dean of students for the institution with oversight of the student disability services department. Successfully leading the institution through its SACSCOC decennial review, with no findings, was one of my proudest accomplishments at Georgia Military College for which I received a congressional commendation for from Congressman Jody Hice.
When did you begin your career at Mercer Law and what was your position?
I began my career at Mercer Law School on August 8, 2022, the same day as the Class of 2025’s 1L orientation. This transition was particularly special because it would mark 20 years since I graduated from law school in 2003.
What do your duties include/what goes on in your office leading up to graduation?
In my role, my primary focus is on our students, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed. From orientation to taking the Bar Exam, my office is involved in every aspect of a law student’s educational journey. We organize programming to welcome and integrate 1Ls into our community, including Family Day, and celebrate milestones for our graduating class. I also have the honor of working with our Student Bar Association as their advisor.
What’s the most satisfying part of your job?
The most satisfying part of my job is the relationships I build with our students. Being a dean of students offers a unique opportunity to learn from students and grow as a leader. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their progress and success.
What’s the best thing about Mercer Law School?
The best aspect of Mercer Law School is its strong commitment to service and community engagement. This ethos drives our work and inspires everyone to make a positive impact.
