Caroline Hager, Mercer University’s 2026 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Medal recipient

Established at Mercer University in 1926, in memory of Mr. Sullivan, a great humanitarian and philanthropist, this medal is presented to the graduating student who best exemplifies excellence in character, leadership, service to the community and commitment to spiritual values.

Caroline Banahan Hager is Mercer University’s 2026 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Medal recipient. Hager exemplifies servant leadership through a sustained, deeply personal commitment to others and to Mercer University School of Law. Her work as co-chair of the Student Bar Association’s Community Outreach Committee reflects not only her dedication to service, but her ability to inspire it in others. She has led initiatives addressing food insecurity, housing instability, and child welfare, helping Mercer Law win three consecutive Law School Legal Food Frenzy titles. This year the group raised more than $28,000 for the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank and cumulatively more than $50,000 over three years. She also organized the school’s first Resource Fair, connecting students with local service organizations and fostering long-term engagement.

Hager’s service extended to her classmates through mentorship, tutoring, and academic support, offered consistently and without recognition. As a student ambassador, she generously guided prospective students, often spending significant time ensuring they feel welcomed and informed. Through every role, Hager strengthened her school community while advancing a broader culture of service grounded in empathy, humility, and meaningful impact.

After graduation, Hager will be joining Waldon Adelman Castilla McNamara & Prout as an associate attorney practicing civil defense litigation.

Hager shares the following sentiment:

To my mom, for teaching me that little girls can fly and for giving me the wings to do so. 

To my dad, for always being proud of me as long as I did the best that I could do. 

To my parents, for providing for me beyond my wildest dreams, and for instilling in me that community outreach and involvement is not a choice, but rather a responsibility. 

To John, for chasing our dreams together. 

To Audra, for being my best friend since childhood and answering every phone call when I needed encouragement. 

To my family, both chosen and given, for celebrating every accomplishment with me, including this one. 

To Professor Sarah Gerwig, for welcoming me to Mercer with open arms and being a clear role model of what it means to serve others – she deserves this award too. 

And to the Mercer Advocacy Council, Professors, Faculty, and Staff who have spent countless hours with me ensuring I am prepared to be a Mercer Lawyer ready for practice.