Meet the
President
Dr. Cynthia A. Bond Hopson assumed the role of Interim President and CEO at Philander Smith University on July 1, 2023, following nearly 18 years of dedicated service as a trustee at the institution. Before taking on this pivotal position, Dr. Hopson held the role of Chief Equity Officer and Assistant General Secretary at the United Methodist Church's General Board of Higher Education and Ministry's Black College Fund. In this capacity, she played a crucial role in promoting and managing the funding that provided support to the denomination's 10 Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Dr. Hopson's academic journey is marked by her dedication and achievements. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications from Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University), followed by a Master of Science degree in Journalism from Murray State University in Kentucky. She capped off her educational journey with a Ph.D. in Journalism from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Dr. Hopson's contributions to academia and community have garnered her honors and recognition from esteemed organizations, including the Brownsville Haywood County NAACP, the University of Tennessee Civil Rights Conference, Rust College, and Bethune Cookman University. Additionally, she was named a Woman of Excellence by Wiley College.
Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, Dr. Hopson is a versatile individual. She is a best-selling author, a proficient workshop leader, a captivating speaker, and a seasoned podcast host. Dr. Hopson has also shared her knowledge and expertise as an educator at Lane College, Murray State University, and The University of Memphis.
A proud native of Stanton, Tennessee, Dr. Hopson maintains active involvement in various organizations, including the NAACP, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the National Association of Black Journalists. She is a dedicated member of the historic Centenary United Methodist Church in Memphis. Her late husband, the Reverend Roger A. Hopson, served as the church's pastor until his passing in October 2022. Dr. Hopson treasures her family, including her two children, Marcos and Angela, her four grandchildren - Kierra, Terrell, Maya, and Morgan, and her great-grandson, Avery. She currently resides in Maumelle, AR, where she continues to make a positive impact on her community and beyond.
A Message from
the President
Greetings, blessings, and welcome to the amazing Philander Smith University! For more than 146 years Philander has been a source of inspiration, a beacon of light and hope, a refuge, an incubator for big dreams, and fertile soil for visionary and transformational leaders, thinkers, and doers. When it comes to critical thinking, innovation in science, computers, mathematics, the liberal arts, allied health, engineering, or preparation for tomorrow's careers, our world-class faculty and staff are poised to empower, encourage, and embrace you to lead strategically, courageously, and honorably.
When we hear our students and alumni declare, "I didn't choose Philander; Philander chose me, and we're family," it's more than just words. To us, each and every student is a cherished gem, receiving our unwavering care, substantial investment, nurturing, and empowerment to triumphantly fulfill their potential. So, if you hear us calling your name and you're dedicated to the pursuit of excellence, whether you're in search of a place to belong or ready to soar, know that we are fully prepared for your arrival! Simply give us a call at 501-555-1212, drop by for a visit, or take the plunge and enroll online today at philander.edu. The moment is yours, and we're eagerly waiting to welcome you into the Philander Smith University family!
Book A Speaking
Engagement
Office of the President Staff
Dr. Gregory A. Hudson
Interim Executive Vice President & COO
gahudson@philander.edu
Anita Hatley
Senior Executive Assistant to the President
ahatley@philander.edu
Vanessa Parker
Receptionist/Administrative Assistant
vparker@philander.edu
Kabryn Grayson
Administrative Assistant/Switchboard Operator
kgrayson@philander.edu
Main Office
president@philander.edu
Phone Number: 501-370-5275
Location: Harry R. Kendall Center
