Alumni Spotlight - Brianna Hopkins '16

Apr 7, 2026 9:00 AM

Bobcat Bulletin Alumni Spotlight highlights alumni who give back to Frostburg in some way – time, talent, treasure or any combination. This edition of Bobcat Bulletin features Brianna Hopkins '16.

Current City: Baltimore, Md.

Current Occupation: Assistant Principal, Deep Creek Elementary School

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I chose to attend Frostburg State University because it was about two and a half hours from home. Although I initially wanted to go out of state for college, my mother worked as the Director of the Counseling Center at Morgan State University. Because of her position, she was able to cover my tuition, so I only had to pay for room, board and fees.

Which faculty and/or staff member influenced you as a student?

Robert Cooper, Dr. Janet Mattern, Dr. Jodi Eirich M'97, Shawn Jones, Donna Briner '17 and Melanie Moore '05/M'07.

What is your favorite memory as a student?

My favorite memory as a student was traveling to Uganda with the President’s Leadership Circle. It was a life-changing experience where we learned so much from the local community, gave back by helping paint a maternity ward and fully immersed ourselves in a different culture. We even had the honor of naming a baby, which is something I will never forget. The trip was filled with unforgettable moments, from trying some of the best food I have ever had to going on a safari and staying in both a beautiful resort and huts without electricity. That experience taught me the value of connection, gratitude and simplicity. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to disconnect from the world once more, as we did in Uganda, and to be entirely present in the moment.

What advice would you give to a student currently studying your major?

The sky is the limit in education. Work hard. Get the degree. Take your student teaching seriously and learn all you can. I did my student teaching in the Baltimore City Public School System. Thank you to Dr. Mattern for allowing me to be the face of the Pathway to Profession grant that MSDE awarded us for $3.8 billion to allow students this experience.

Why do you give back (time, talent and/or treasure) to FSU?

I give back to FSU because I care deeply about supporting current students and helping them see what is possible for their future. Representation matters, and I want students to see someone who looks like them and who is not far removed from where they are now. As a young alum, I believe my presence makes success feel more real, relatable and attainable. I am also passionate about diversity and the role it plays in education. I want College of Education students to feel inspired and prepared to pour into black schools and communities. Increasing black teacher retention is critical, and it starts with encouraging, supporting and guiding future educators while they are still in college. Giving back allows me to invest in the next generation of educators and help create lasting change.

Tell us about a class or activity at FSU that has had a surprising effect on your life.

One experience at FSU that had a surprising and lasting impact on my life was being selected to teach a developmental math class while I was still a student. At the time, I did not realize how much that opportunity would shape my future. Standing in front of the classroom, supporting students and helping them build confidence in math sparked something in me that I had never felt before. That experience ignited my passion for teaching and ultimately led me to become a math teacher. It showed me the power of education and the impact a teacher can have on students’ lives. I am forever grateful to Beth Stallings '92 for believing in me and giving me that opportunity. It truly changed the course of my life.

List any professional or personal accomplishments we can celebrate with you.

I was the Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year for Baltimore County Public Schools. I am also obtaining my Doctorate in Education Leadership from American College of Education.

What is a cause dear to your heart?

A cause that is deeply important to me is educating students in underprivileged communities. I am truly passionate about supporting the whole child academically, socially and emotionally so they have every opportunity to succeed and thrive. I believe every child deserves access to a quality education, strong support systems and people who genuinely believe in their potential. I also love building meaningful relationships with families and working together to create a strong foundation for each student. There is nothing more rewarding than watching students grow, gain confidence and begin to see possibilities for themselves that they may not have imagined before. That impact is what fuels my purpose and commitment to this work.

What did you do for fun at FSU?

I loved the Late at Lane parties and the Divine 9 stroll competitions. It was amazing to see African American students come together, celebrating both our shared culture and the diversity within our community.