DENMARK, SC, February 9, 2025—The Board of Trustees of Voorhees University 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.
“Dr. Hopkins has led Voorhees University with distinction, integrity, and a results-driven approach that has strengthened the institution academically, financially, and nationally,” said Board Chair Dr. David Miller. “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.”
During his tenure, Dr. Hopkins 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 for its first doctoral degree, the Doctor of Education in Leadership, by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
In October 2024, Voorhees achieved another national milestone with the establishment of the Voorhees University Charter Institute of Learning (VU-CIL)—making Voorhees the only Historically Black College or University in the nation to serve as a charter school authorizer. Through VU-CIL, the University now supports independent charter schools across South Carolina by providing guidance, technical assistance, and resources to expand educational access and student success statewide.
Dr. Hopkins’ presidency has also 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 graduation rates, reinforcing the University’s commitment to retention, degree completion, and holistic student support.
Nationally and internationally, Dr. Hopkins’ leadership continues to elevate Voorhees’ profile. In January 2026, he was re-elected to serve a two-year term as President of the Association of Episcopal Colleges—a role that reflects the confidence of peer institutions in his leadership and positions Voorhees prominently within faith-based higher education. In this capacity, Dr. Hopkins represents Episcopal colleges and universities across the country and around the world.
Further, recognizing his impact, Dr. Hopkins was named one of the Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders of 2025 by the HBCU Campaign Fund, placing him among a distinguished group of presidents and chancellors shaping the future of HBCUs and Minority-Serving Institutions nationwide.
“Leading Voorhees University is both an honor and a calling,” said Dr. Hopkins. “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, strengthening outcomes, and advancing Voorhees to the next level of excellence.”
The contract extension provides leadership continuity as Voorhees University advances its strategic priorities, strengthens its financial foundation, expands academic innovation, and deepens its impact across South Carolina and beyond.