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

  • At the Exit Ramp, a United Methodist Chaplain Offers Prayer, Hospitality and Hope
    Published On: September 29, 2026

    Sometimes, the road to Damascus passes through Breezewood, Pennsylvania. There at the intersection of Interstates 70 and 76, the Rev. Bruce Maxwell, a United Methodist deacon who serves as an endorsed chaplain at the travel plaza, cares for truckers, travelers, or anyone passing through.  

  • Helping Future Leaders Discern God’s Call Through EXPLORATION
    Published On: September 29, 2026

    The EXPLORATION discernment event is unlike any other event with its goal of helping people discern and not pushing them into ordained ministry or into a particular form of Christian service. EXPLORATION helps participants discern and be open to what God may be asking of them and how they are called to use their gifts and graces to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

  • Jacob Penvose Bridges Faith and Mental Health Through His Call as a Deacon
    Published On: September 24, 2026

    "What inspired me to become a deacon is to be able to share the love of God with individuals who may not ever enter the church," says the Rev. Jacob Penvose, a deacon in full connection from the Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference.