Mercer University School of Law graduate Elizabeth Nelms has dedicated much of her life to serving others, beginning at the age of three when she volunteered at nursing homes and delivered Meals on Wheels. Inspired by her grandparents' experiences with aging, Nelms pursued a master's degree in gerontology and aims to advocate for older adults through elder law.
“I am interested in practicing elder law due to my understanding of the challenges older adults face and my desire to ensure they receive the legal protections and support they deserve,” Nelms said. “Honoring my grandparents’ memory has profoundly shaped my commitment to this work.”
Originally planning to attend Florida State University, Nelms delayed her law school education due to family commitments. Her husband Jeremy's job relocations brought them first to north Georgia and then Warner Robins, allowing Nelms time with her children before pursuing her own educational goals.
“I was able to spend quality time with my children,” she said. “Teaching them and getting to witness them grow made the wait to attend law school worth it.”
In 2022, after years of caregiving for family members and supporting her husband's career, Nelms decided it was time for her own aspirations. Mercer Law's location enabled her return to academia while maintaining family responsibilities.
“While my family is my top priority, Jeremy wanted to make sure I had my time to prioritize my own goals and aspirations,” she said. “Mercer Law was perfectly located for me to take the leap into law school while also allowing me to be with my family.”
Returning as a nontraditional student posed challenges for Nelms, who previously earned degrees from Auburn University and Kansas State University.
“I had spent years prioritizing others and had to learn how to carve out space for myself," she said. "The struggles I’ve faced have made me stronger and helped me find purpose in the chaos."
Nelms' experience included working in probate court under Bibb County Probate Judge Sarah S. Harris. She developed resources explaining advocacy for older adult clients beyond traditional elder law practices.
At Mercer Law School, she participated in several organizations including the Mercer Advocacy Council’s negotiations team alongside Anjali Patel. She also held leadership roles such as co-president of Older, Wiser Law Students.
Nelms will begin working as a staff attorney for Judge Jeffery Monroe in the Superior Court of the Macon Judicial Circuit following the bar exam.
Reflecting on her journey, Nelms encourages those considering new careers: “Remember that you don’t have to do it alone... Surround yourself with people who encourage you... Focus on your growth instead of perfection."