Henry Hopkins (pastor)

Henry Hopkins (born October 7, 1807, in Hadley, Massachusetts; died January 2, 1887, in Williamstown, Massachusetts) was an American Congregationalist minister and educator. He served as the fourth president of Williams College from 1872 to 1881.

Hopkins graduated from Williams College in 1829 and Andover Theological Seminary in 1832. He was ordained as a pastor in 1832 and served at the First Congregational Church in Montville, Connecticut, for several years. He later became a professor of rhetoric and English literature at Williams College in 1836. He succeeded Mark Hopkins, his elder brother, as president of Williams College in 1872.

During his tenure as president, Hopkins focused on maintaining the college's reputation for rigorous academic standards and a strong emphasis on Christian principles. While the college experienced financial challenges during his presidency, he worked to secure funding and improve the college's facilities. He also emphasized the importance of character development and moral education for students.

Hopkins resigned from the presidency in 1881 and was succeeded by Franklin Carter. He remained active in religious and educational affairs until his death in 1887. He was a respected figure in Congregationalist circles and a prominent voice in the debate over the role of religion in higher education.