Provost Dr. Lisa Lundquist has put students at the heart of her work at Mercer University for the past 20 years. The University’s unique culture and commitment to student success have kept her engaged and provided her with purpose across a variety of roles.
Dr. Lundquist completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Doctor of Pharmacy at Samford University, and postgraduate residency in primary care at DCH Regional Medical Center in Alabama.
“What initially drew me to the field of pharmacy was really the unique blend of science, patient care and problem-solving that all come together in the field,” she said. “I always had an enjoyment for science and the thought about how medications work and how something at the molecular level can really change someone’s quality of life.”
Dr. Lundquist was a professor at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy and practiced clinically in Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia before joining the faculty at Mercer’s College of Pharmacy in 2006. During her interview, she learned about Mercer’s culture and community of respect, she said.
“Family circumstances brought me to Georgia, and I really felt such alignment with Mercer’s mission,” Dr. Lundquist said. “Twenty years later, I really do find the community of respect to be action not just words, and that’s definitely what keeps me engaged. It’s certainly my ‘why,’ being in this unique environment and culture at Mercer where everybody’s moving forward together with student success at the forefront.”
In the College of Pharmacy, Dr. Lundquist also served as assistant dean and associate dean. She chaired the planning committee for the College of Health Professions, established in 2013, and is its founding dean. The College has programs in physician assistant studies, physical therapy, clinical psychology, public health, athletic training and kinesiology.
“I had the privilege to be involved with the College of Health Professions since 2012, when it was merely a concept, and so the creative process of being able to turn ideas into a reality has been rewarding,” she said. “I really appreciate the opportunity to be able to see the big picture and strategize about the future direction of the college and, at the same time, navigate the details of creating programs and maintaining success.”
Dr. Lundquist became senior vice provost in February 2025 and was appointed as executive vice president for academic affairs and provost this January. In this new role, she leads Mercer’s 12 schools and colleges, the Mercer Health Sciences Center, the Division of Student Life, University libraries, research, institutional effectiveness, international programs, registrar, academic and advising services, and Mercer University Press, among other units.
“(I will be) working alongside the leaders at Mercer, faculty, staff and students to advance the academic enterprise, to foster innovation and excellence at Mercer and enhance collaboration across colleges and units within the University,” she said of her goals in this new position. “I think the main focus of all of the initiatives is going to be that students are at the heart of everything we do. It is a season of change, and it is very exciting.”
Trust, shared purpose and communication are vital elements of Dr. Lundquist’s leadership of teams at Mercer.
“Trust is the foundation on which innovation, collaboration and teamwork are built,” she said. “Taking time to build connections, appreciating each other’s contributions and celebrating success help create a culture of trust and respect. I think teams function best when everyone understands why their work matters and the connection to our focus on student success. Setting expectations with accountability are pivotal to moving forward with a shared purpose. I aim to communicate with clarity and consistency, listen actively and position people to lead with their strengths.”
In addition, faith and family allow Dr. Lundquist to bring her best self to her work at Mercer.
“My faith focuses me with an ‘others ahead of self’ approach in all areas,” she said. “My family keeps me grounded, encourages me and helps me to see the bigger picture beyond any single task or challenge. Students, faculty and staff inspire me with their resilience, creativity and commitment — their successes are a daily reminder of why our mission is worth the effort.”
When it comes to future women leaders, Dr. Lundquist offered the following advice and encouragement.
“Doing the right thing is not always easy, but do what’s right anyway,” she said. “It’s important to surround yourself with people who think differently than you and have different experiences than you because there’s such strength in diversity. My third piece of advice is to give grace to yourself and to others.”
