Television legal analyst Nancy Grace returns to Mercer University to share journey from tragedy to national success

Mercer University welcomed back one of its most prominent alumni on Wednesday as television legal analyst, author, and former prosecutor Nancy Grace delivered the school’s 2026 Founders’ Day address.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Nancy Grace, a double Mercer Bear who earned both her undergraduate and law degrees from the university, spoke to students and faculty about perseverance, second chances, and how Mercer shaped her path to national prominence.

During her remarks, Grace reflected on a deeply personal chapter in her life, the murder of her fiancé, and how Mercer stood by her during one of her darkest moments.

“I owe so much to Mercer,” Grace said. “I dropped out unceremoniously when my fiancé was murdered and they let me back in, no questions asked. I applied to one law school, Mercer University, no backup plan. They let me in and the rest is history.”

Grace went on to become one of the first female special prosecutors in inner-city Atlanta before building a nationally recognized career in television and victims’ advocacy.

Founders’ Day is a long-standing Mercer tradition dating back to 1891, designed to bring influential alumni back to campus to inspire the next generation of leaders.

University officials say Grace’s story of resilience and determination reflects the spirit of Mercer’s mission and the impact its graduates continue to make across the country.