Loyola Blakefield proudly announces that senior Peter Hopkins has been named the 2025 recipient of the Troy M. Vance '85 Endowed Scholarship.
This prestigious award is presented annually to a senior who excels in academics and athletics while embodying the Jesuit ideal of being a "Man for Others." Established in memory of Troy Vance, a 1985 graduate remembered for his dedication to sports, scholarship, and service, the scholarship recognizes students who reflect these core values.
Peter exemplifies what it means to be a Don. A standout in every sense, he is a respected leader on the Varsity lacrosse team, serves as President of the Student Government Association, and participates in many activities outside of the classroom including Peer Education and the OneLove Club. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or around campus, Peter leads with humility, enthusiasm, and a deep sense of responsibility to his peers and the larger Loyola community.
"As a two-year starter, Peter consistently led by example, both in practice and during games," says Varsity lacrosse coach Will Haus. "Peter's work ethic and relentless drive set the standard for the entire team, pushing everyone to elevate their game. On the field, he was not only a hard worker but also a vocal leader, always encouraging his teammates and ensuring they stayed focused and on task. Whether it was directing guys on where to go, offering advice, or simply keeping morale high, he was the anchor that held the team together during his senior year. His leadership was invaluable, making everyone around him better and leaving a lasting impact on the program."
Ms. Alison Rohrbach, School and College Counselor, praises Peter's work ethic and performance in the classroom. "Peter is an excellent choice for this year's Troy Vance Scholarship Award. He embodies many of the same qualities and characteristics of Troy. Peter is a kind and genuine student who makes others feel included. He has excelled academically in the Ignatian Honors Program at Loyola Blakefield. Peter is a natural leader who serves as Loyola's SGA President, Captain of the Varsity Lacrosse team, a Peer Educator, and a member of One Love. He is true man for others who consistently demonstrates the core values of a Loyola Don!"
Peter will attend Trinity College this Fall, where he intends to pursue studies in Economics and continue his athletic career.
Congratulations to Peter Hopkins on this well-deserved recognition. His achievements and leadership continue to elevate the Loyola Blakefield community and serve as a shining example for future Dons.
During his four years at Loyola, Troy was a member of The National Honor Society, played three years of varsity football and lacrosse, having been a co-captain of both sports, and was active in community projects and service. At graduation, Troy was awarded the Scholar-Athlete, Doctor Ford Loker Medal. He then went on to the University of Pennsylvania, graduating in 1989 from the Wharton School of Business. Troy also played and lettered in four years of Penn lacrosse. In 2014, he was inducted into Loyola Blakefield’s Athletics Hall of Fame.
In 1993, Troy was struck and killed by an impaired driver. Shortly after his death, his Loyola classmates and close friends raised enough funds to have a memorial fountain built and installed in front of Knott Hall. These same friends and classmates then raised enough money to start a scholarship in Troy’s name and in his memory.