On February 9, 2026, Voorhees University announced that the Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the extension of President and CEO Ronnie Hopkins contract, ensuring his continued leadership of the institution from 2026 through 2031. The unanimous vote reflects the Board’s strong confidence in Dr. Hopkins’ visionary leadership, steady stewardship, and transformative impact since assuming the presidency in 2021. The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) commends the Board of Trustees for the extension of Dr. Hopkins contract and extends its sincere appreciation for his visionary leadership and continued commitment to excellence.

“Dr. Hopkins has led Voorhees University with distinction, integrity, and a results-driven approach that has strengthened the institution academically, financially, and nationally. His leadership has positioned Voorhees for long-term sustainability and continued excellence. The Board is proud to extend his contract and affirm our shared commitment to the University’s future.”

— said Dr. David Miller, Board Chair

The University noted that during Dr. Hopkins’ tenure, he has guided Voorhees through a period of historic growth and national recognition. Under his leadership, Voorhees transitioned from college to university status during its 125th anniversary, expanded its academic portfolio to include master’s and doctoral programs, and received approval of its first doctoral degree, Doctor of Education in Leadership, by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Dr. Hopkins’ presidency has been marked by unprecedented philanthropic and federal investment, including a transformational $19 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, the largest donation in the University’s history, along with additional major grants supporting student success, institutional innovation, and long-term sustainability.

Academically, Voorhees has earned Top 10 national rankings among HBCUs for four-year graduations rates, reinforcing the University’s commitment to retention, degree completion, and holistic student support.

Furthermore, in 2025, Dr. Hopkins was named one of The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders by the HBCU Campaign Fund, recognizing his impact and placing him among a distinguished group of presidents and chancellors shaping the future of HBCUs and Minority-Serving Institutions nationwide.

“HCF celebrates the unanimous decision by the Board of Trustees of Voorhees University to extend the contract of President Ronnie Hopkins’ through 2031. This extension reflects the Board’s strong confidence in Dr. Hopkins’ visionary leadership and his commitment to advancing the mission and impact of this historic institution. His stewardship has strengthened the University’s academic excellence, financial foundation, and strategic partnerships — achievements that resonate deeply with HCF’s mission to uplift and support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We extend our sincere congratulations to Dr. Hopkins’ and the entire Voorhees University communities and look forward to the continued progress and impact of the institution under his leadership.”

— Demetrius Johnson, Jr., HCF Founder, President & CE

“Leading Voorhees University is both an honor and a college. I am deeply grateful to the Board of Trustees for their continued trust and partnership. Together, we will continue building on this momentum—expanding opportunity, strengthen outcomes, and advancing Voorhees to the next level of excellence.”

— Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, Voorhees University President & CEO

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About Voorhees University
Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Drive by a mission to cultivate well-round graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. For more information, visit voorhees.edu.

About the HBCU Campaign Fund
The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) was founded in 2012 and is a non-profit educational organization that remains a strong advocate for students and higher education. The mission of HCF is to support the significance and raise funds for scholarships, programs, and for private and public HBCUs and MSIs. For more information, visit www.hbcucampaignfund.org.