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

  • Deacon Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson’s Global Music Ministry Bridges Cultures and Faith
    Published On: September 10, 2026

    The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson remembers the moment she recognized her call — even as she tried to resist it. Ordained in the first class of the Order of Deacons in The United Methodist Church, Wilson reflects on a ministry shaped by faith, music, and a deep commitment to service that has carried her across the globe.

  • Young Filipino Leaders Grow in Mission Practice
    Published On: September 9, 2026

    The School of Mission for Young People (SMYP) brought together more than 30 leaders in the UMC to engage in conversations and experiences around mission in Asia.

  • Tuesday Reflections: Barcelona
    Published On: September 8, 2026

    Last May, I had the honor of leading a group of chaplains and campus ministers on El Camino de Santiago in Spain. The experience was life-changing for all participants. After we completed El Camino, I took a few days off to meet my sisters in Barcelona for a weekend together. While there, I visited La Sagrada Familia Basilica. Being in and around the building was a deep spiritual experience.