If you ask around about recently passed Academic Center coordinator Albert Hopkins, you’ll find two things. One, almost everybody knew him—both current and former students, parents, teachers and administrators. Second, certain phrases seem to be glued to his name—friendly, giving, kind-hearted.

Hopkins, who was 63 years old, died June 30 of a heart attack while playing basketball at the Stanford University courts, where he often participated in pick up games. Though Hopkins was in great health, heart problems ran in his family.

A memorial service for Hopkins took place Jul. 10 at Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto, the Hopkins’ family church. The service was well attended by people from all aspects of his life—family members, De Anza College, Little League baseball, his past neighbors, Camp Anytown staff and Gunn community. After the pastor gave a speech, many people spoke about their memories of Hopkins.

Among the people who shared their memories at the service was social studies teacher Deborah Sanderson. “I remember Mr. Hopkins as being a gentleman and a gentle person,” she said. “He was quick to help. I needed someone to chaperon a fundraiser from the Pink Ribbon Club. He did it without a moment’s hesitation. He was the master of ceremonies for a Black History Month assembly. He had a strong presence on the stage without being overbearing.”

Though Hopkins was born in Altus, Oklahoma, he was raised in Bakersfield, California along with his brother and two sisters. He received a Masters degree at University of California Santa Barbara. Before working at Gunn, Hopkins worked at De Anza College as a counselor for 20 years.

Hopkins was well known among Gunn students because of his role for the past five years as the coordinator of the widely used Academic Center (AC), a place to catch up on reading, finish homework, research on computers or quietly chat. But Hopkins brought something special to the AC—a relaxed and friendly environment. “Mr. Hopkins was unique in that he was able to provide a focused environment in the AC for students to productively complete their work, while at the same time he maintained a friendly atmosphere where students could socialize with each other and relieve stress,” junior Maggie Goulder said. “I think that this balance in the AC was what made it such a popular place for students.”

The peaceful atmosphere of the AC was probably due his personable qualities. “He brought a kind, gentle spirit to Gunn,” principal Noreen Likins said. “He was very approachable, and many students used him as a confidant.” Hopkins was also constantly starting conversations with students and brightening students’ days, Goulder said.

All three of Hopkins children, Ryan (22), Kyle (19) and Gabi (17) attended or currently attend Gunn. As most would imagine, having a parent who works at your school takes a little getting used to. “At first I thought it would be weird, but it was actually helpful,” junior Gabi Hopkins said. “If something was wrong I could go talk to him right away. Actually, my friends would mention they had gone and talked to him, and I thought it was funny he was helping them with their issues, too.”

Hopkins was also a generous colleague. “Albert was always willing to help,” math teacher Daisy Renazco said. “Even though he may have been busy, he always found time to participate in another committee or attend another meeting that would help the students of Gunn.”

Besides being the AC coordinator, Hopkins was active in other aspects of Gunn, especially in racial equality. He was the advisor of the Black Student Union and was also an avid Camp Everytown (formerly Camp Anytown) attendee, a four-day camp where students learn to be leaders and to embrace diversity. Hopkins also started the Parent Network for Students of Color, a group aiming for the success of minority students in the classroom and in extra curricular activities.

Outside of school, Hopkins was very interested in sports. “He was a sports freak,” Gabi said. If he wasn’t at school, he was watching sports, coaching or playing himself.” Hopkins coached Little League baseball teams, National Junior Basketball teams and YMCA basketball teams.

Many people have proposed ideas for memorializing Hopkins and his role on campus. Some students expressed interest in renaming the AC as the Albert Hopkins Academic Center. Sanderson hopes to create a scholarship in Hopkins’ name in the future through jar wars and a corporate sponsorship. Other staff members are interested in planting a tree on campus in his memory. Hopkins will be honored during the first assembly of the year on Sept. 4.