JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The University of North Florida has announced the passing of former President Dr. Anne H. Hopkins.
Dr. Hopkins served as the fourth president from 1999 to 2002 and continued at the University as a political science professor.
Dr. Hopkins initiated the University’s first capital campaign “Access to Excellence.” At the time, the campaign was the largest philanthropic effort in Jacksonville’s history, raising more than $100 million, according to UNF.
In 2002 Dr. Hopkins resigned as President after undergoing two major surgeries, including open heart surgery, calling her ultimate decision to step down a “intensely personal decision”, the Jacksonville Business Journal reported.
Dr. Hopkins began her academic career in 1968 as an assistant professor and chair of political science at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in New York. She earned her doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degrees in political science from Syracuse University.
“Dr. Hopkins will be remembered elevating the student engagement opportunities, faculty research projects and the overall prominence of the University as well as spearheading a capital campaign that greatly contributed to the University’s ongoing growth and development,” said UNF President David Szymanski.
“Years after her retirement, she frequently attended UNF functions to engage with students and faculty and continued to give back to the University. She will be greatly missed.”
A memorial service for Dr. Hopkins is scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, July 16, 2021 at Palms Presbyterian Church (3410 3rd St S. in Jacksonville Beach).
Attendees are asked to pre-register.