Yvette Hopkins

Hear from the candidate and then register to attend the Hustings to ask your questions.

Thank you for this opportunity to stand for election and to tell you why my attributes align with what you seek in the Chair of Court for Glasgow Caledonian University. Here, I will share my unique background and experience in strategic leadership, entrepreneurship and ambassadorial voice, and demonstrate my deep commitment to social responsibility, which is why this role appeals to me so strongly.

"Be the change that you wish to see in the world" are the words I endeavour to live by, always. I believe GCU lives these words every.single.day. I have come to observe, know and respect GCU. I am inspired by GCU’s commitment and pride to making a positive difference – where inclusivity, innovation, and justice, are watchwords. I believe GCU plays a crucial role in creating a better, more sustainable world.

My name is Yvette Hopkins, and I want to help Glasgow Caledonian University students gain the knowledge and skills to become Global Changemakers.

My Essence and Core

I am

A values-based leader. Integrity is at my core. Like many of us, these foundational values came from my parents.
- the daughter of a Scottish (Shetland) mother shaped by her upbringing as a rural islander who taught me the value of hard work, fighting for the “underdog” and innovation.
- the daughter of an American father from the deep south who taught me the value of leadership, service, and non-judgement.
- These values sit close to my heart, and they align with the values and intentions of GCU - where the common good is critical to not only communities, but also to the world.
I had the opportunity to grow up, live and work in over 50 international locations; surrounded by languages, cultures and celebrations that have enriched my life and my approach.
I am proud of my life-long record of advocating for marginalised people, including the repeal of the ‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’ policy ostracising LBGTQ+ Service members; affirming the Black Lives Matter movement; or inspiring women and girls in and into leadership. Respect of All people is the cornerstone of the common good.
I chose to come home to Scotland to continue my life of Service, where I now lead a not-so-quiet life surrounded by family in Shetland.

My Approach Should I Receive the Honor of Chair of Court, GCU.

I will

Lead GCU Court with a culture of Engagement, Advocacy and Respect in the pursuit of excellence.
Work collaboratively within the Court, the Senate, the Staff, the Executive team, GCU stakeholders, and the city of Glasgow to the benefit of GCU Students.
Be student – centric. You are our raison d’etre.
Be accessible, transparent and listen intently.

Here are three examples of how I can help

GCU is committed to empowering its students with a high-quality education, holistic support and meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact on society.

1. Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Business:

We are all here to empower GCU students by providing access to practical learning, industry connections and dedicated support programs that turn ideas into impactful ventures aligned with the Common Good.

I operate in one of Scotland’s most innovation-driven sectors – The Space Industry. In this, emerging and vibrant UK Space-based economy, I foster cutting-edge solutions, drive strategic partnerships and support growth of emerging enterprises, demonstrated as commercial (Space) executive, as chair of board for a Glasgow based space engineering practice, and as an entrepreneur.
I engage and partner across the economic community with impact; whether with government agencies and decision makers, industry bodies, or academic institutions and communities; serving on cross party groups, knowledge exchange forums, future skills roundtables and contributing to Scotland’s entrepreneur landscape.
I guide businesses and industry stakeholders towards long term success. I am a sought after credentialed strategist.

2. Strategic Leadership:

We are here to create a supportive, inclusive and forward-thinking environment that prioritises student well-being, academic excellence and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

I deliver high quality leadership that inspires. I have extensive and significant experience comfortably leading and governing high-performance teams and large, complex, multi-faceted organisations.
I see complex nuances in challenging situations, moving quickly to coalesce teams and organisations to achieve the mission. As a military veteran, I led young men and women through such dynamic situations.
I lead and engage across several sectors; I have served on and led multiple boards across the Space, Sustainable Construction, Women’s Enterprise, and Charity sectors designed to help alleviate societal challenges (poverty and inequalities), and on Veterans and creative industry boards.
I have deep exposure and global partnerships with cross-sector industry leaders. My reach includes North America, Europe, Africa, the Arctic, and Latin America.

3. Advocate, Ambassador and Public Speaker:

We are here to foster a welcoming and inspiring community for GCU students.

I am:

an international strategic communicator. I share impactful stories, speak, and participate in several United Nations Sustainability Goals.
an active participant in the sustainability sector. Whether through sustainable construction, space earth observation or renewable energy.
an ambassador for change. As a GlobalScot ambassador for Scotland, I leverage international networks to connect people, growth, investment, and dreams.

I believe my background and experience provide a unique perspective that aligns with GCU’s mission for the Common Good, supporting the development of student graduates equipped to make a positive impact on society.

I am ready to work alongside you to build tomorrow’s Changemakers and a brighter future for GCU.

As Chair of Court, my vision would be to strengthen GCU’s legacy as a beacon of education that prepares students for successful careers and lives led by purpose and social contribution. My ambition is that GCU’s influence extends far beyond its campuses, touching lives and shaping the future of a greater society. Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to working together for the Common Good.

Vote For Me. Let Me Help You Change the World…

For the Common Weal!