Nearly a year after his passing, former Academic Center Coordinator Albert Hopkins was honored on April 4, which was designated as Albert Hopkins Memorial Day. Hopkins, who passed away June 30, 2007 from a heart attack, was commemorated with a bench dedication.

“Mr. Hopkins impacted lots of people,” Principal Noreen Likins said. “We felt it was important to establish a lasting memory of all he contributed to the campus and the people he knew.”

The bench, which is located in the open space directly in front of L-23, was officially recognized with a ceremony during lunch. Students, faculty members and Hopkins’ relations gathered, clad in pink, to recognize the establishment of the bench as a tribute to Hopkins.

“When dedicating something in someone’s honor, you want to make sure it is something that everyone can benefit from,” Assistant Principal Phil Winston said. “A bench is something that will be used by students daily.”

The bench was accompanied by an oak tree, which was also planted in Hopkins’ memory. A plaque intended for placement in front of the tree reads, “He gave, he listened, he encouraged.”

“An oak will live for hundreds of years,” Likins said. “It goes along with the bench as a constant reminder of his presence.”

The number of students in attendance at the dedication was attributed to Hopkins' dedication to student activities and clubs. “He put a lot of his time outside of school hours to the students,” Likins said. “He left a great impression on them.”

Over the course of the past year, students and faculty have paid tribute to Hopkins in various ways. A scholarship fund in his name was started over the summer, and a segment of the beginning-of-year assembly was dedicated to his memory. Upon the end of construction on campus, the administration intends to name the Academic Center after Hopkins.

“Mr. Hopkins was just a wonderful person,” Likins said. “He was kind, caring—he had a great impact on all of those who knew him and is greatly missed.”