About
Boone Hopkins is the twelfth President of Converse University and a former Assistant Professor of Theatre. He has been a dedicated member of the Converse community since 2012, holding key leadership roles including Chair of the Department of Theatre & Dance, Dean of the School of the Arts, Senior Associate Provost for Student Success, Interim Provost, and Interim President before becoming President in 2022.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Theatre Studies – University of Kansas
- MFA in Directing and Acting Pedagogy – Virginia Commonwealth University
- BA – Brenau University / University of North Georgia (Gainesville State College)
Dr. Hopkins' academic and artistic work centers on theatre, performance, and acting pedagogy. He has directed numerous productions at Converse, including Legally Blonde: The Musical, Twelfth Night, Cabaret, The Wolves, and Godspell. His background in a liberal arts partnership education informs his commitment to student success and innovative teaching.
While no scholarly articles are listed, his professional contributions reflect a strong engagement with theatre practice, academic leadership, and community development in the Spartanburg region.
Honors:
- Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary Club of Spartanburg
Dr. Hopkins has advised and led numerous academic and administrative initiatives at Converse. He has served in multiple deanships and provost-level roles, guiding academic affairs and student success. Though no formal grants are detailed, his leadership in units like Academic Affairs and the Provost’s Office indicates deep involvement in institutional funding and strategic planning.
He has been actively involved in community and regional development through memberships in the South Carolina Tuition Grants Commission, Ten at the Top Board, Chapman Center Board (2017–2023), and advisory roles in the Spartanburg Academic Movement. These reflect a broader commitment to educational access and regional advancement.
