Sonya Hopkins
Associate Athletic Director of Academics
Years at Butler: 17

What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time for all of us to reflect on the positive influences people of color have had on our country. It serves as a reminder that our forefathers fought for our freedom and won.

How would you describe what you do at Butler?
At Butler, I oversee the academic services for student-athletes, sponsor our Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and provide life skills programming.

What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is experiencing the academic success of the student-athletes and attending their graduation ceremonies.

Share one thing that you are most proud of that you have accomplished here.
I am most proud of the rate at which our student-athletes earn their degrees here. It’s a reflection of the effort they put into being the best students that they can be.

How has your experience working at a predominately white institution (PWI) enabled you to operate effectively in other environments?
I attended a PWI, coached at a PWI, and now am an administrator at a PWI. Any success I have experienced has more to do with the person I am than the makeup of the institution I have been privileged to work for.  

What can people do to celebrate Black History Month?
There are many things that people can do to celebrate Black History Month, including raising money to help the underserved, attending a Black History Month event in-person or online, and supporting Black-owned businesses. My favorite way to celebrate is by attending events encouraging children to be proud of their heritage. They learn to pass that encouragement on to those who follow them.