A legacy of open doors

Beth Norbrey & Larry D. Hopkins Hall isn’t just a building, their son David said at the dedication of the residence hall on Saturday, Oct. 25. “It’s about legacy. It’s about what it looks like to open doors for others, even when you had to break them down yourself.”

Beth Hopkins (’73) has had a decades-long career in law, education and community outreach, and was one of the first two Black female residential students at the University.

Her late husband, Dr. Larry Hopkins (’72), a football star at Wake Forest, became a well-known physician who improved access and outcomes for women’s and neonatal health.

The couple met in front of Wait Chapel in 1970 and were married for 47 years. They have two children, Michelle and David, and two granddaughters.

“Together, they modeled a life of service and strength. A life built on the belief that Pro Humanitate isn’t just a motto – it’s a way of being,” said David Hopkins. “They didn’t just love Wake Forest. They challenged it to be better.…They mentored. They nurtured. They listened. Because for them, helping others wasn’t optional – it was their purpose.”

In her opening remarks, President Susan R. Wente emphasized the importance of honoring Wake Forest’s history through the stories of those who have left the institution and community better than they found it.

“The crowd gathered here today represents just a fraction of the lives changed by two people named Beth Norbrey and Lawrence D. Hopkins,” Wente said. “Two people who each – in their own right – embody lives of learning, discovery, character and leadership. Two people who have asked hard questions and courageously pursued the answers, who have given wise counsel, never stopped learning, and have ceaselessly given of their time and talents to do good in the world.”

A Double Deac, Larry Hopkins was the first Black man to graduate from Wake Forest with a degree in chemistry and later earned his medical degree from the Wake Forest School of Medicine in 1977. He became a prominent OB/GYN, delivering thousands of babies—including NBA star Chris Paul—and served the Winston-Salem community for more than 30 years. He received the University’s Medallion of Merit on February 21, 2020.

“They didn’t just walk through closed doors. They held them open for others.” – David Hopkins

“The early 70s at Wake Forest were a time of exploration and revolution. Afros were a foot high, and skirts were a half yard long,” Beth Hopkins shared. “Initially, we were not welcome in any Wake Forest society, fraternity, cheerleading squad, on campus parties and in some cases, we were not welcome in the classrooms. Yet, we were not afraid because we faced unpleasant situations together.

We were warriors fighting for our place at Wake Forest, and we created a pathway for future students of all stripes. Proudly, Wake Forest has embraced the pathway of change and moved to create opportunities where all students here are treated with fairness, and there is the expectation of students working hard and serving humanity.”

Listen to Beth Hopkins’ speech from the Hopkins Hall dedication ceremony.

After the program, Wake Forest sophomore Ty Monroe spoke with Beth Hopkins, who encouraged him to engage with the alumni, faculty and community leaders because their perseverance through racism and discrimination helped create the opportunities students have today.

“That perspective left me feeling both grateful and responsible: grateful for the doors their generation opened and responsible to use the resources and relationships we have now to support those who come after us, said Monroe. “As an RA, that reminder to connect, learn, and pay it forward really stuck with me.”

Hopkins was named Homecoming Queen in 1971. This year’s Homecoming Queen, Chase Clark, shared that “to follow in her footsteps is both humbling and deeply inspiring.”  

“As this year’s Homecoming Queen and President of the Black Student Alliance, I feel profoundly connected to Professor Beth Hopkins’ legacy,” Clark said. “Her courage and determination paved the way for students like me to take up space with pride and purpose. She transformed what representation could mean at Wake Forest—showing that leadership, intellect and grace can coexist in powerful ways. I’m grateful to help continue the work she began in creating a more inclusive and empowering campus for all.”

Photos from the Beth Norbrey & Larry Hopkins Hall Dedication Ceremony

Hundreds attended the ceremony, held over Homecoming Weekend, to rename South Residence Hall to Beth Norbrey & Larry Hopkins Residence Hall.

"Today’s festivities are intended to celebrate what Beth and Larry have done for Wake Forest, as students and as distinguished alumni who served as Trustees and successful professionals in the Winston-Salem community." – Life Trustee Donna Boswell ('72, MA '74)

The Wake Forest University Gospel Choir sings, “Your Grace and Mercy.”

"When a university names a building—it is a rare honor, one of the highest a university can bestow." – President Susan R. Wente

"Beth and Larry led lives of compassion, great service and leadership. Their story will be heard by residents of Hopkins Hall for years to come." – Board of Trustees Secretary Emeritus Reid Morgan ('75, JD '79)

“Professor and Dr. Hopkins opened their home and their hearts to me and countless other students, creating community and embodying the spirit of Pro Humanitate. It is only fitting that a dorm—a place of living, belonging, and connecting—now bears their names.” – Alex Reyes Schroeder (‘06, JD ‘09)

ACC legend Larry Russell shares memories of Larry Hopkins on the field.

Members of the football team share some time with Beth Hopkins at the dedication ceremony.

"Throughout his remarkable career, Dr. Hopkins trained and inspired thousands of physicians—including myself—instilling in us not only knowledge and skill but also compassion and integrity." – April Miller, M.D.

"The Hopkins family has given plenty of love to others, and this dedication of Hopkins Hall is the love from everyone whose lives they’ve touched." – Fred Robbins II ('09)

David and Michelle Hopkins celebrate with their mom at the closing of the event.

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