GBHEM Honors the Life and Legacy of Rev. Roger A. Hopson, Devoted Husband, Minister, and Teacher

Published On: February 23, 2023

The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry is called to bring people together to discern, learn and lead for the church and the academy. To further this mission, we created the Rev. Roger A. Hopson Seminary Scholarship, in memoriam of Rev. Roger A. Hopson, devoted husband, father, and minister. This scholarship represents GBHEM’s commitment to worldwide inclusion, diversity, equity, and access for all. The scholarship is funded through proceeds from the sale of GBHEM’s Kern property in Nashville, Tenn. 

Rev. Hopson was an individual of extraordinary talent, leadership skills and a passion for ministry. He was an extremely bright, hardworking, accomplished minister. His effusive personality combined with a genuine interest in the well-being of others yielded him a successful career in teaching and ministry. 

Hopson is a 1968 graduate of Central High School in Savannah, Tenn., and earned a B.S. degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin, and a Master of Divinity degree, with honors, from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. He served as a former social studies teacher in Dyer County, Tenn., then as United Methodist pastor, district superintendent, bishop’s assistant, and Council on Ministries director during his 42-year ministry.

Scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a Master of Divinity at one of the 13 United Methodist seminaries and schools of theology in the United States. With this scholarship GBHEM is opening pathways for students of all backgrounds to earn their degrees and serve as the next generation of leaders for the church and the world. 

For more information on how to apply visit: gbhem.org/rev-roger-a-hopson-seminary-scholarship.

Related Posts

  • Meharry Medical College: Faith and Funding Fuel Health Equity
    Published On: March 26, 2026

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. — “Meharry [Medical College] was birthed, reared in and now sustained by our faith. Methodists came together to create something special,” said Dr. James Hildreth, president and CEO of Meharry. “It allows our students to worship God through service.”

  • Major Grant Supports Gammon’s Efforts to Advance Sustainability
    Published On: March 26, 2026

    The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) of The United Methodist Church has awarded a $975,000 capacity building grant to support Gammon Theological Seminary’s work toward independent accreditation and long term sustainability.

  • Reflections for Lent 2026: Break the Mirror
    Published On: March 20, 2026

    I find peace in perspective. I also find strength, particularly when I feel overwhelmed. Perspective helps me understand that what is in front of me need not determine my fate. Japanese poet Nanao Sakaki said it best with his poem, "Break the Mirror."