Michael was born on August 10, 1965 to Don and Pat Hopkins. He attended Corpus Christi for primary and secondary school before enrolling at Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School, where he graduated in 1983. Little did anyone know at the time, Michael would become the first of ten members of the Hopkins family to attend and graduate from McClancy, including his brother Dewey ’89, several nieces and nephews, Stephen ‘08, Brian ‘12, Gina ‘16, Elizabeth ‘19, Emily ‘23 and his three children — Ryan ’12, Tommy ’16, and Ashlee ’24.
Following his time at McClancy, Michael began a remarkable career at CBS News, working his way up from the mailroom to Director of Logistics/Special Events. Over more than 30 years at CBS, he played a role in covering countless presidential elections, debates, Super Bowls, and major national events. Michael helped cover the events of the September 11th attack on New York City and helped produce the CBS Morning Show at One World Trade for the opening of the Freedom Tower. In his extraordinary career, he was even able to be part of the news broadcast from the White House. As part of the CBS Evening News team, Michael helped win an Emmy Award in 2021.
Despite his extensive professional success, Michael never forgot his roots. From 2004 until his passing, he remained deeply involved in the McClancy community. He was a big supporter and coach throughout the early years of the softball program as well as an avid basketball, baseball, track and field, and cheerleading supporter. Michael often credited his McClancy education and upbringing for teaching him the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
In his memory, the Hopkins family has established the Michael Hopkins Foundation and the Michael Hopkins Memorial Scholarship, which will support a student in need at Monsignor McClancy.
Michael is survived by his wife, Kathy; his son Ryan ’12 and his wife Melina, and their daughter Marlee; his son Tommy ’16 (Director of Communications) and his wife Kayla; and his daughter Ashlee ’24.