Office of the President

Aligning with Our Purpose, Investing in Our Future

You know firsthand what makes Converse so special. From the supportive mentorship of faculty, to the close-knit community that fosters confidence and leadership, Converse has always been defined by transformative programs and experiences that prepare students not only for careers, but for lives of meaning and purpose.

Yet, today, higher education is facing some of its most significant challenges in decades:

• Shifting demographics mean fewer college-aged students and greater competition for enrollment.
• Rising costs and inflation put pressure on families—and on institutions striving to keep education affordable while sustaining excellence.
• Changing expectations in a rapidly evolving workforce demand new, innovative programs that equip students for emerging fields.
• Reduced federal and state support intensifies the need for philanthropic partnership to maintain access and quality.

In this environment, Converse is moving forward with clarity and resolve. We are:

• Investing in excellence: Channeling resources toward innovative, high-impact programs that define the Converse experience and give students a competitive edge in a global environment.
• Streamlining for strength: Focusing on key mission-aligned priorities to ensure Converse remains both resilient and future-focused.
• Continuing careful stewardship: Using our resources in impactful and thoughtful ways to propel our university toward permanent financial stability.
• Remaining true to our mission: Delivering the personalized education and leadership preparation that has been Converse’s hallmark for more than 135 years.

Some of the decisions ahead of us will not be easy. But they are the choices that a resilient university must make. We will move forward with transparency, care, and a commitment to our mission — which is the heart of Converse.

I believe deeply that this is Converse’s moment of opportunity. By focusing our resources, we are ensuring that Converse remains a place where every student receives the attention, support, and experiences needed to succeed, innovate, and lead.

Together, we will build a stronger Converse. I invite each of you—our alumni, parents, friends, and community partners—to walk alongside us in this important work. Your engagement, advocacy, and support will help us write the next chapter of Converse’s story.

Boone J. Hopkins, Ph.D.

Learn more about official university statements.