MEET OUR FELLOWS
William (Tuck) Hopkins retired as a partner in a large law firm and served during his traditional career in many leadership roles. Read about Tuck's road to ILI and how he has embraced the experience.
How did you learn about the ILI and why did you select to do this at this point in your life?
I was inspired to apply after watching Chris Stevens speak on the Notre Dame Day broadcast last spring. Having recently retired, it was the perfect time to consider this type of program.
Do you have any specific goals in the program?
The main reason I chose to apply was that I knew ND has a global presence on a variety of stages such as peacekeeping (Columbia, South America) and BOTFL. I want to look at service opportunities on a global scale.
Did you find the discovery/discernment time in July to be a valuable intro to the program?
Yes. Because this program provides such a wide range of opportunities distinct from our prior life experiences, the July meetings were important to set the stage for a smooth beginning in August.
What classes did you choose to audit?
In addition to the Great Books course the entire cohort takes together, I am auditing:
Colonial America (History)
High Renaissance Art (Art History)
Monetary Theory and Policy (Economics)
Have you had the opportunity to share your area of career expertise in any way with students and/or faculty?
Yes. I have met, and continue to meet, with several individual students who are considering a career in law. I have spoken in two classes and at the Higgins Labor Program as well as on the Center for Social Concerns blog. I am also looking forward to meeting this semester with three or four key faculty members regarding international mediation/negotiations.
Has the program so far met your expectations?
Yes, it is clear ND is committed to the success of this program and I am excited and proud to be in the initial cohort.
Have you enjoyed your interaction with other members of the cohort?
It has been beyond enjoyable. We’ve already become great friends, committed to each other’s success. For example, several of us meet informally each week to discuss each other’s goals, aspirations, and opportunities.
How has your wife, Nancy, found the move to South Bend?
She has been pleasantly surprised at the number of enrichment opportunities such as the Tom Friedman speaking engagement.
What have you found to be your favorite part of the ILI program?
That could be a difficult question to answer because there have been so many positive experiences with students, faculty and ILI representatives. But getting to know and become friends with the other Fellows is the highlight.
Would you recommend the Inspired Leadership Program to others?
I already have - to the general counsel of a multinational European company and several others. That list will definitely grow with time.