Elmer began his career at ASU in August 1967 as Assistant Professor of Economics.  He earned his Ph.D. and M.A. in economics from the University of Kansas and his B.S. from McPherson College.  He retired from ASU as Professor of Economics in May, 2004, but taught in the fall 2004 at the department's request.  At ASU he held numerous academic and administrative positions including the following:  Assistant and Associate Dean of the College of Business and Director of Graduate Programs;  Assistant Provost; Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs; Loaned Executive to the Arizona Board of Regents; Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; Acting President (for two months in the spring of 1991.

His teaching fields are international economics and macro economics.  He initially joined the ASURA as an associate member and became an active member in the fall of 2004 and subsequently served as President of the Board.  He and his wife Joyce were married for 45 years and they have two married daughters and six grandchildren.  His hobbies include photography and woodworking.  He has served on several local volunteer boards and is Chairman of the Board for University Education for the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.  This board oversees ten Lutheran Universities located throughout the United States.

Elmer was interviewed by ASURA's Video History Project team on January 23, 2007. Both the full interview and a short clip from the interview are available for on-line viewing.

 Updated May 2008, Photo 2010