Dr. June Gary Hopps has dedicated her life to issues of race, inequality, social justice, and human and civil rights. Dr. Hopps is the Thomas J. Parham Professor at the Graduate School of Social Work at the University of Georgia and was presented The Significant Lifetime Achievement in Social Work Education Award in 2017.
She is a leading authority on public policy for children and families and was instrumental in establishing the Donald L. Hollowell Professorship at the University of Georgia along with other initiatives. Dr. Hopps was the first African American to serve as dean at the Boston College Graduate School of Social Work and as editor-in-chief of NASW’s journal, Social Work.
An iconic leader, historical figure, and social change agent in social work and social policy, Dr. Hopps’ career is òòò½Ö±²¥ by activism through community and scholarly engagement to dismantle racist, oppressive beliefs and practices in social service and other realms. This activism is reflected in Dr. Hopps’ eminence as a policy scholar and her prolific, transformative, antioppressive scholarship including her book, Social Work at the Millennium: Critical Reflections on the Future of the Profession and articles focused on race, social justice, civil rights, and the social work profession.
Dr. Hopps has provided tireless leadership, mentorship, and service over the course of her career, including during her 24-year tenure as dean at Boston College, where she is credited with fostering the growth and excellence of the Graduate School of Social Work. She has served on numerous university, community, and governmental boards, committees, and commissions, lending her public policy expertise to bridge the gap between the academy and public services.
Dr. Hopps is the recipient of numerous awards for her leadership and contributions, including NASW’s award for Outstanding Leadership in the Social Work Profession, the establishment of the June Gary Hopps Graduate Fellowship at Boston College, and the proclamation of June Gary Hopps Day by the state of Massachusetts.
Dr. Hopps’ òòò½Ö±²¥ and extensive contributions as an educator, scholar, and leader to transform policy and bring attention to oppression and injustice make her a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.
