Boone Hopkins
Boone J. Hopkins, PhD, serves as the twelfth president of Converse University with a clear vision: to ensure Converse is a distinctive, student-centered institution where a rigorous liberal arts education is paired with real-world preparation, strong mentorship, and a deep sense of belonging. A servant-leader at heart, President Hopkins is deeply committed to student success, academic excellence, and the transformative power of a liberal arts education.
Originally from Gainesville, Georgia, President Hopkins’s educational journey was shaped by an innovative undergraduate experience through a partnership between Brenau University—a historic women’s college—and Gainesville State College (now the University of North Georgia). That formative experience ignited his passion for interdisciplinary learning and student-centered education. He went on to earn an MFA in Directing and Acting Pedagogy from Virginia Commonwealth University and a PhD in Theatre Studies from the University of Kansas.
After joining the Converse community in 2012 as an Assistant Professor of Theatre, President Hopkins quickly became a dynamic leader on campus. Over the years, he has served in numerous roles, including Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance, Dean of the School of the Arts, Senior Associate Provost for Student Success, and Interim Provost—each position reinforcing his belief in collaboration, mentorship, and institutional stewardship.
In addition to directing plays and musicals at Converse, President Hopkins is known for his ability to inspire others to reach new heights. His leadership extends beyond campus through service as Chair of the South Carolina Tuition Grants Commission, a member of the Ten at the Top Board supporting economic development in the Upstate, a member of the South Carolina Independent College and Universities Executive Committee, and as a member of both the Integrated Planning Advisory Group and 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 also served on the Chapman Center Board from 2017–2023, including as Chair of its General Operating Support Grants Committee, and is an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church.
President Hopkins is married to Dr. Chandra Owenby Hopkins, Dean of Converse College for Women, and together they are the proud parents of Owen and Jack.