Converse President Boone J. Hopkins Named One of the Most Influential People in SC
Converse University President Boone J. Hopkins, Ph.D. was one of 500 professionals in South Carolina selected for the The South Carolina 500, a premier recognition program celebrating the most influential and accomplished professionals throughout the state. The list recognizes 500 remarkable people who are sparking innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities in South Carolina.
This honor speaks to Dr. Hopkins role as an Influential leader and visionary in education, driving innovation and workforce development.
“It is a privilege to serve a university that develops transformative leaders who are prepared to enter the workforce with the skills employers value and the character our communities need. This recognition reflects the honor of working alongside a dedicated team of faculty, staff, and alumni, who help our students discover their potential and put it into action.”
Dr. Hopkins is the twelfth president of Converse University and has been a dedicated member of the Converse community since 2012. He is leading Converse, a thriving institution that champions its people, places, and programs and serves as a driving economic force in the region.
A servant-leader at heart, Dr Hopkins is deeply committed to student success, academic excellence, and the transformative power of a liberal arts education.
Dr. Hopkins brings his love of empowering others and impacting his community for good through his service as a member of the South Carolina Independent College and Universities Executive Committee and as a member of the Movement 2030 Advisory Board for the Spartanburg Academic Movement.
His contributions have been recognized across the region, including being named one of Greenville Business Magazine’s 50 Most Influential People of 2024 and receiving the Paul Harris Fellow honor from the Rotary Club of Spartanburg. President Hopkins is an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church and has also served as Chair of the South Carolina Tuition Grants Commission from 2023-2026 and as a member of the Chapman Center Board from 2017–2023, including as Chair of its General Operating Support Grants Committee.