A LU M N U S S u c c E S S s t O R y
Alumnus Jim Hopson , B . Ed . ‘ 75 , Recipient of the 2015 University of Regina Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award
When most people think about the accomplishments of Jim Hopson , they think about his 10-year tenure as president and CEO of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and how he revitalized the Canadian Football League ( CFL ) franchise . Fewer people know about his distinguished 30-year career in education . For his contributions in both fields , Hopson is the recipient of the 2015 Alumni Crowning Achievement — Lifetime Achievement Award .
The award is given annually to the University of Regina graduate who exemplifies a lifetime of contributions in one or more fields , gives back to society , is a recognized leader , and is an inspiration to members of the University ’ s family .
Hopson grew up in North Annex , a rough-and-tumble neighbourhood that sat on the most northwesterly section of Regina at the time . He started playing football in Grade 10 and after graduating from Thom Collegiate in 1969 , he joined the Regina Rams coached by Gord Currie , a teacher and principal who would convince the young Hopson to pursue an education degree . Aided by a Rams ’ scholarship , Hopson enrolled in the 2-year teaching certificate program at the University of Saskatchewan , Regina Campus . His first teaching job was in 1972 in the southern border town of Ceylon where he taught for one year , all the while playing for the Rams and earning distinction as the best offensive lineman in the league .
“ Sports played a huge role in shaping who I am . High school and junior football helped me to develop confidence , self discipline , understanding the importance of teamwork and cooperation . Perhaps most importantly are the roles that dedication and perseverance play in success . Sports are a great metaphor for life and prepare you to deal with the challenges and disappointments you encounter ,” says Hopson .
In 1973 , Hopson made the roster of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and would play for the Green and White for the next four seasons . After appearing in the 1976 Grey Cup game , he retired from football to devote himself fulltime to his education career .
His career in education spanned more than 30 years . During that time , Hopson taught , became a principal in Lumsden and Pilot Butte , and eventually was the director of education for the Buffalo Plains and Qu ’ Appelle Valley School Divisions . In 2004 , about the time he was going to retire , the new position of president and CEO of the Saskatchewan Roughriders came up . Hopson jumped at the chance to work for the Roughriders again after three decades .
Hopson was at the helm of the Roughriders during their most successful era , both on and off the field . Under his watchful eye , the team has appeared in four Grey Cup games , winning two and very nearly winning all four . He has changed the culture of the organization and instilled a winning attitude that permeates the entire club . During his term , a Code of Conduct was introduced that sets standards of behaviour for players , personnel and volunteers , and holds them accountable for their actions . He was also a driving force behind the building of a new $ 278-million state-of-the-art stadium that will be the new home of the team at the start of the 2017 season .
“ My fondest memory is the end of the 2013 Grey Cup Game and seeing the absolute joy on the faces of fans , players and staff ,” Hopson recalls .
Reprinted from U of R Alumni Relations , External Relations
Faculty of Education Education News Spring / Summer 2015 Page 9
Photo Credit : U of R Photography