Mercer University has appointed M. Shawn Arnold as executive director of corporate partnerships for the Stetson-Hatcher School of Business. Arnold assumed the newly created role on July 11.

In the position, Arnold is responsible for managing and developing strategic corporate relationships that support the University’s mission through student internships and employment, collaborative research opportunities, continuing education programs and philanthropic engagement. While the role is centered within the Stetson-Hatcher School of Business, it is designed to foster cross-campus collaboration with other schools and departments as appropriate through Mercer’s Corporate Relations Coordinating Council.

Arnold brings nearly three decades of experience in sales, client management, entrepreneurship, technology leadership and executive management. He spent the last five years as the founder and CEO of a technology company serving the legal sector, where he led the development of AI-driven platforms and professional services before the business was acquired in 2024. Over the course of his 28-year career, Arnold has earned a reputation for building high-impact relationships and leading innovation across industries.

A proud Mercer alumnus, Arnold earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in management from the University, where he also played on the Mercer baseball team.

“Mercer has always been special to me,” said Arnold. “To have the opportunity to contribute to the University’s mission as a professional will be perhaps the most satisfying thing I will ever do. I’m excited to be a part of Mercer’s continued success and growth. I’m home.”

“Shawn brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to Mercer that make him uniquely qualified for this role,” said Dr. Julie Petherbridge, dean of the School of Business. “His leadership in building innovative partnerships will strengthen our engagement with industry, expand opportunities for our students and faculty and further position Mercer as a trusted partner for businesses across the region and beyond.”

Arnold’s appointment reflects Mercer’s ongoing commitment to expanding its partnerships with industry and advancing real-world opportunities for students and faculty.