Dr. Jeff Hopper

Dr. Jeff Hopper served as a distinguished professor of music, director of Honors Symposium and dean of both the Honors College and International Programs, dedicating 45 years to Harding University before retiring in 2019. 

A native of Sacramento, California, Hopper attended the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and earned a Bachelor of Music from Harding in 1974. He holds a Master of Music in piano performance from Southern Illinois University and a Doctorate in musicology from Rutgers University. He was hired upon graduation as an assistant professor and spent decades teaching in Harding’s Music department. He directed Spring Sing hosts and hostesses from 1975-85 and directed campus musicals such as My Fair Lady and 1776. A gifted pianist, Dr. Hopper traveled domestically and internationally performing as both a soloist and accompanist. He was remembered for his unconventional teaching approach and his deep connections to his students. During his tenure, he received the Teacher Achievement Award three times, earning Distinguished Professor status.

Two decades into his teaching career he began working closely with Dr. Don Shackleford, dean of international programs, and eventually becoming assistant dean and helping to establish international locations in England and Greece. He and his wife, Judy, led countless student groups abroad creating rich, memorable learning experiences for generations of students. In 2001 Hopper succeeded both Dr. Larry Long as dean of the Honors College and Dr. Don Shackleford as dean of international programs. He served as head of both until 2011 and continued to lead international programs until his retirement in 2019.

Under Hopper’s careful influence and passion, Harding University International Programs grew from a single program to six, spanning six of the world’s seven continents. He believed deeply that seeing the world afforded students a chance to experience new perspectives, navigate different cultures, provide opportunities for service and spark curiosity. To him, this was an essential form of learning, and he worked tirelessly to make study abroad more accessible to every Harding student. 

We warmly invite you to contribute to Harding International Programs in honor of Dr. Jeff Hopper whose decades of service and leadership leave a lasting impact on the University and its global initiatives. Your support will continue his legacy by offering financial assistance to students in need who wish to attend an international program.