Mercer provost dies at age 61 from apparent heart attack

Mercer University Provost Scott Davis died Sunday evening from an apparent heart attack, according to a note sent out to university staff earlier this morning.

Davis, 61, the university’s provost since 2012, oversaw the opening of Mercer’s health services school and record enrollment and research funding. 

“Scott was the finest provost with whom I have had the privilege to serve,” President Bill Underwood wrote to staff. “In addition to a brilliant mind, Scott was determined to make Mercer the best it could be. He loved Mercer. When there were tough things that needed to be done, I could always count on Scott.”

The university is waiting for further details on Davis’ passing before releasing a statement, a spokesperson told The Melody.

Davis received his doctorate from Emory University and completed his postdoctoral research appointment at the University of Illinois.

Davis started at Mercer in 1991 as an assistant chemistry professor before becoming the department’s chair in 2000 and later the dean of graduate studies and senior vice provost for research in 2006.