L. Nelson “Nick” Hopkins, MD

2023, Washington, D.C.

Dr. Nick Hopkins graduated cum laude from Albany Medical College and has been a pioneer in the catheter-based treatment of neurovascular disease and stroke and has developed one of the largest and most respected stroke treatment centers in the world. His work led to the creation of a new specialty in Neurosurgery – Endovascular Neurosurgery – and his trainees serve in leadership positions throughout the US. He served as chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University at Buffalo for nearly 25 years, authored more than 450 peer-reviewed publications, and received numerous awards for his contributions to Neurosurgery. In 2013, he was named SUNY Distinguished Professor, the highest academic award in the NY State University system; and in 2018, he was awarded the Norton Medal, the highest award at SUNY Buffalo. In 2021, he received the Business First business leadership hall of fame award.

He conceived and spearheaded the design and build for the unique $300 million Gates Vascular Institute (GVI) and Jacobs Institute (JI) vascular innovation center, which opened in Buffalo in 2013.

Nick has been a leader in the Buffalo community through his service on the boards of the Albright Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, The Gow School and YMCA. He enjoys golf, tennis, squash, hiking, and skiing with his family. Clubs include John’s Island Club, Buffalo Tennis and Squash, Buffalo Club, Cherry Hill Club in Canada, Shooting Star and Snake River Sporting Club in Wyoming and The Yale Club.

Nick and Bonnie, his wife of 57 years, are most excited and proud of their wonderful 3 children and 8 grandchildren. They hail from Buffalo, New York, but have additional homes in Vero Beach, Florida, Jackson, Wyoming, and a cottage in Fort Erie, Ontario.