President William Underwood

About the Author

President William Underwood is a visionary leader in higher education, renowned for his transformative tenure as president of Mercer University, where he championed innovation, equity, and global engagement. With decades of experience in academia and administration, Underwood has dedicated his career to advancing the role of universities in shaping a more just and prosperous society. His insights into the evolving landscape of American higher education are captured in his acclaimed book, Beyond 2020: Envisioning the Future of Universities in America (The ACE Series on Higher Education), which offers a compelling blueprint for institutional resilience and adaptation in the face of rapid societal changes. Underwood's work continues to inspire educators, policymakers, and students to reimagine the possibilities of learning and leadership in the 21st century.