In their own words: Beth Hopkins on representation and recognition

Also, I am a member of the USTA Southern Section Board of Directors, and liaison with both the Awards and DEI committees. (As a result of my interest in tennis, I am pleased that my son, David Hopkins, played No. 1 at Wake Forest, and is a volunteer on a USTA Northern California committee.) Previously, I was the chair of the USTA National Constitution and Rules Committee.

I am extremely proud of how the USTA has chronicled the contribution of African American players and coaches, and their historic achievements. It is so important that we continue to honor those who have come before us and laid the foundation for my generation and generations to follow. But recognition of Black history achievers should run throughout the year, not just for the month of February. It is truly unfortunate that some states have decided to eliminate this recognition and the importance it brings to recognizing our history and growth—not just for African Americans, but for this nation overall.

Within the USTA, we have taken historic leaps together. We make it clear we are an inclusive organization which addresses diversity in thought and deed. For me, the USTA is a magical organization.

[Editor’s note: At the 2023 US Open, Beth Hopkins was honored as one of the USTA’s Champions of Equality. She previously was honored with the Southern Tennis Association Volunteer of the Year Award in 2012, and received the Martin Luther King Dare to Make a Difference Award in Winston-Salem. Her most recent honors include the ACC Unity Award, and being named Wake Forest Distinguished Alumnus of the Year for 2023.]