Lorenzo N. Hopper

Lorenzo N. Hopper is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Community Health at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), affiliated with the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS). He holds a part-time adjunct role and has served as an MPH Program Director. His research focuses on maternal and child health, men’s health, and student wellness, particularly in underserved populations. Dr. Hopper earned his PhD in Maternal and Child Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2020) and an MPH from East Carolina University (2013), complemented by a B.A. in Chemistry from UNC-Chapel Hill.

He teaches courses in epidemiology, health disparities, and public health practice, including HLTH 6471 (MPH Internship) and HLTH 6280 (Epidemiology Capstone). His scholarly work emphasizes community-based participatory research, father engagement, and health equity. Recent honors include the 2024 National MCH Workforce Development Center Fellowship and a 2022 Community Voice Award.

• Research initiatives include co-leading the Charlotte MCH Workgroup and co-advising the SHAPE program at UNCC.
• Affiliated with The Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy.
• Key grants include a 2022 Faculty Research Grant and Delta Omega Honorary Society recognition.

His publications address barriers to paternal engagement among Black fathers, first-generation student wellness, and correlates of sexual behavior across fatherhood statuses. Dr. Hopper’s work bridges academic research with community-driven solutions to improve health outcomes for marginalized groups.