Cynthia A. Bond Hopson, Ph.D.
Dr. Cynthia A. Bond Hopson, Ph.D., is a distinguished equity, diversity, and HBCU consultant, author, speaker, and podcast host based in Memphis, Tennessee. Over a career spanning more than three decades, she has championed initiatives that advance diversity, inclusion, and empowerment, particularly within higher education and faith-based communities. Dr. Hopson is a retired Chief Equity Officer and Assistant General Secretary for The Black College Fund at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church, where she spent nearly two decades fostering programs that support historically Black colleges and universities and promote inclusive institutional practices.
Before her tenure in equity leadership, Dr. Hopson built a robust academic career as a journalism educator, teaching at institutions including the University of Memphis, Murray State University, and Lane College. Her scholarly work integrates race, class, gender, and cultural studies into curricula, and she has conducted extensive oral-history research documenting the lives and contributions of African American women. Dr. Hopson earned her Ph.D. in Journalism from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, and a Master of Science in Journalism from Murray State University, cementing her foundation in both media studies and critical social analysis.
An accomplished author of five books, with a sixth in progress, Dr. Hopson combines insight, humor, and inspiration to engage her audiences. Her works, including Totally Gracefull and Times of Challenge and Controversy, focus on empowerment, reflection, and faith-based guidance. Beyond writing, she leads workshops, retreats, and speaking engagements that emphasize listening, humility, and heart-centered change. In her personal life, she enjoys shopping, reading, museum visits, and writing columns that share her perspectives, all while encouraging others to “Keep Shining!”—a motto that has guided both her professional and personal journey.
• Creating Psychological Safety for Diverse Teams
• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale - Ph.D.
• United Methodist Church
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being truly blessed with a strong faith that guides me in both my personal and professional life. I am also fortunate to have the support of an incredible family and colleagues, whose encouragement and collaboration continue to uplift and inspire me every day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always stay humble. No matter how much success you achieve, maintaining humility allows you to keep learning, grow stronger relationships, and remain grounded in your work and values.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering the industry to listen to their hearts and not be deterred. Trust in God and in your own convictions—approaching every opportunity with humility and kindness will guide you far in both your career and personal growth.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is helping people understand why what we do matters. By clearly communicating the purpose and impact of our work, we can inspire engagement, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful results.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty and integrity—these two principles I believe are key to achieving lasting success. I also strive to approach every interaction with kindness, as I see my purpose in life as bringing a little sunshine and positivity to those around me.
Locations
Private Company
Cordova, TN 38016-1607