Dean's Message June 2025
The end of an academic year heralds new beginnings. The 2024-25 academic year is no different.
On May 9, 2025, we gathered in Hawkins Arena to celebrate the Class of 2025. The graduates came from 11 states, with the majority coming from Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. But graduates also came from across the country, from Alaska to New York to Puerto Rico to earn their J.D.s at Mercer. They joined Mercer Law from 50 undergraduate institutions with 37 majors. What they all shared was an enthusiasm to engage their colleagues and the community. For example, members of this class reinvigorated student organizations by reviving organizations such as the Student Veterans Association and the National Security Law Association, joining two existing organizations to form the Sports and Entertainment Law Society, and expanding the number of panels and events hosted by all student organizations. They lead community outreach efforts, including twice winning the Law School Division of the Legal Food Frenzy. They excelled in the classroom. Eleven graduates earned the new Public Service Certificate. To earn this certificate, students must complete at least 16 credit hours in courses focused on public service and complete at least 30 hours of pro bono work. Two graduates earned the J.D./M.B.A. They are departing Mercer Law for federal and state clerkships, public service positions, and private law firms. Vernon Strickland, a member of the Class of 2006, delivered an inspirational commencement address that will resonate with these graduates for years to come. I know you join me in sending our graduates best wishes as they transition from commencement celebrations to bar exam studying.
The rising 2Ls and 3Ls were delighted to complete their exams and turn their attention to summer plans. Those plans include summer school, study abroad opportunities, externships, and summer associate positions.
We also celebrate the next adventure for Dean Daisy Hurst Floyd and Professor Tim Floyd, who are retiring as of June 30, 2025. Each of them have advanced the mission of Mercer Law School in meaningful and lasting ways. To recognize Dean Floyd’s leadership, we created the Daisy Hurst Floyd Excellence in Leadership Award. This annual award will be given to a graduating student whose leadership within a student organization reflects a strong commitment to helping others and providing meaningful service to the community. The inaugural recipient, like Dean Floyd, exemplifies what it means to a Mercer Lawyer. I know that future recipients will continue Dean Floyd’s example.
Plans are already underway for a wonderful 2025-26 academic year. Mark your calendars for Homecoming on November 14-15, 2025 in Macon and the Law School Alumni Dinner on February 27, 2026 at the Hotel Intercontinental in Buckhead. Our next newsletter will be in September. I wish everyone a wonderful summer!
