A native of Stilson, Georgia, John McElveen grew up on a family farm with row crops, a herd of Black Angus, and a swine operation. John graduated from Auburn University with degrees in Architecture and Environmental Design. After practicing architecture for nine years, he transitioned to higher education leadership positions at Shorter College, Middle Georgia College, and South Georgia College. He most recently served at Columbus State University as Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. John led in creating the widely recognized CSU Care Team Network model, connecting available resources to improve mental health and other challenges within the campus community. John joined the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center in August 2023 as Director of The Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance. The Alliance is a coalition founded by organizations and agencies including Mercer University’s School of Medicine, The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center, the UGA Extension Service, Georgia Farm Bureau, the Georgia Founda􀆟on for Agriculture, The Georgia Department of Agriculture, and the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. GAWA’s purpose is to improve the health, safety, and well-being of Georgia’s agricultural communities. John received his master’s degree from the University of Alabama, and his doctorate from Columbus State. He lives in Columbus, Georgia with his wife Dr. Kimberly McElveen, an Associate Dean in the Mercer University School of Medicine. They are the parents of five children and grandparents to two beautiful grandchildren.