Baptist Health Sciences University hosted a presidential inauguration for Hampton Hopkins, Ed.D., on Friday, March 22 at the Frank S. Groner auditorium on the university’s campus. He is the third president since the school started offering a four-year baccalaureate program in 1994.
“Being selected as the third president of Baptist Health Sciences University was a great honor,” said President Hopkins. “I am grateful to everyone who had a role in welcoming me to BHSU and celebrating with me today. I look forward to contributing my professional experience and personal convictions to further the mission of BHSU and helping prepare the next generation of health care professionals to lead and serve.”
Julia Pilgrim, pianist at Second Baptist Church in Memphis, provided music throughout the ceremony. Chaplain Karen Smith, director of Faith and Service, delivered the invocation.
BHSU Board of Directors Chair Beverly Jordan welcomed guests. Allysen Lancaster, BHSU student, offered a scripture reading from Luke 12:48.
The following speakers provided greetings to President Hopkins: Chair of BHSU Alumni Association Heidi Hordyk, Faculty Senate President Lilian Nyindodo, Vice President of Administrative Services Adonna Caldwell, Student Government Association President Shania Fields and Baptist Memorial Health Care President and CEO Jason Little.
During the installation of the president, the school’s most recent president, Betty Sue McGarvey, presented the mace and Beverly offered the medallion.
President Hopkins gave his inaugural address to the crowd of more than 250 in attendance.
Dean of Nursing Cathy Stepter sang the school’s alma mater by Ray D. Hatton. Taylor Erb, BHSU student, offered the benediction, Psalm 25:4–5.
President Emeritus Rose Temple attended the event as a special guest.
“I was thrilled to help officially welcome Hampton Hopkins as president of Baptist Health Sciences University,” said Beverly. “An inauguration is such a special ceremony steeped in history and academic excellence. I look forward to working closely with President Hopkins and supporting his efforts to advance BHSU’s footprint and academic excellence.”
