Jean R. Sumner, M.D., MACP, dean of Mercer University School of Medicine (MUSM), announced that Stephanie A. Beavers, M.D., FACP, has been appointed senior associate dean for the Macon campus, effective July 1.
Recognized for her thoughtful leadership and commitment to educational excellence, Dr. Beavers has helped shape the School of Medicine’s curriculum while supporting students, residents and faculty throughout their training.
“Dr. Beavers, a MUSM alumnus, believes in our mission and the responsibility we have to prepare physicians who will serve the people of rural Georgia,” said Dr. Sumner. “She is an outstanding physician, educator and leader whose work has supported our students and strengthened our curriculum. I am delighted she is taking on this new role while continuing to provide leadership for academic affairs.”
Dr. Beavers joined the School of Medicine faculty in 2018 and has served as senior associate dean of academic affairs and vice dean of academics and administration since 2023. In that role, she led the development and implementation of the School of Medicine’s educational programs, including undergraduate medical education, graduate medical education, continuing medical education and graduate degree programs. She also oversees the academic departments that support these programs and works closely with executive leadership to advance the school’s educational mission.
“It is a true privilege to serve as senior associate dean of the Macon campus. This role is especially meaningful because it brings my journey full circle,” said Dr. Beavers. “I received my medical training here, where dedicated faculty and the Macon community helped shape me as a physician. It is an honor to return and help lead a campus that has had such a profound impact on my life and career.”
A native of Dallas, Georgia, Dr. Beavers earned her Bachelor of Science in biology, cum laude with honors, from the University of Georgia in 2010. She received her M.D. from Mercer School of Medicine in 2014 before completing her internal medicine residency at The Medical Center Navicent Health (now Atrium Health Navicent) where she served as chief resident. She also completed the American College of Physicians Guided Fellowship Program and the Medical Association of Georgia’s Georgia Physician Leadership Academy.
“I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, students, healthcare partners and community members to build on the campus’ strong foundation,” said Dr. Beavers. “Together, we will continue preparing the next generation of compassionate health professionals and scientists to serve the unique healthcare needs of rural Georgia while strengthening the partnerships that improve the health and well-being of our communities. I am excited for all we will accomplish in the years ahead.”
Dr. Beavers is a member of the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society and the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She remains actively involved in medical education, working closely with third- and fourth-year medical students and internal medicine residents through bedside rounds, morning report, board review and the development of simulation curriculum.
Outside of her work, Dr. Beavers enjoys spending time with her family and pets, including training and volunteering with her therapy dog, and visiting the beach.
Dr. Beavers succeeds Dr. Candi Nobles-James as senior associate dean of the Macon campus.
