“Success is not defined by where you start but by the courage to embrace your journey and dare to be great.” These words from Charron Michelle Hopson, MPA, epitomize a career spanning over two decades of unwavering commitment to advocacy, legal, and public service to the American people, particularly the Veteran community.
A trailblazing leader and visionary, Ms. Hopson has dedicated her life to transforming lives through innovation, resilience, and determination. With her federal career beginning in 2009 at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Ms. Hopson has consistently raised the bar. Starting as a Veteran Service Representative at the Philadelphia Regional Office, her dedication and expertise quickly propelled her into the roles of Rating Specialist and Manager at the St. Petersburg VA Regional Office. By 2023, Ms. Hopson’s passion for efficiency and justice brought her to the Medical Disability Examination Office (MDEO) in VBA’s Central Office, Washington, D.C., as a Management Analyst. In her current role, she investigates complaints and inquiries related to Veteran examinations for VA benefits, working closely with Veterans, Congressional liaisons, and other stakeholders. Ms. Hopson’s ability to innovate has been transformative—her development of a streamlined VIEWS tracking system revolutionized task management, leading to her being named MDEO Employee of the Month (August 2024) and Employee of the Year (FY 2024). “Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about impact. When you solve problems with integrity and empathy, you leave a legacy that outlasts any accolade,” Ms. Hopson shares. Her career before federal service included significant contributions as an Appeals Specialist at Independence Blue Cross and a defense paralegal with expertise in employment, constitution, criminal, and discrimination law.
Ms. Hopson holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from West Chester University of Pennsylvania, a Master’s Degree in public administration from Keller Graduate School of Management, and a certificate in paralegal studies from the Washington Online Institute. Her academic achievements, paired with her innate leadership skills, have positioned her as a thought leader in public service. Among her numerous honors are the esteemed “Fellow of the Most Excellent Order of International Experts (FOIE)” by the United Nations, a New Jersey General Assembly Resolution, Honorary Doctorate recipient from CICA International University & Seminary. and a Citation from the New Jersey Senate. She has also been recognized as a Global 100 Honoree by ICABA World Network, Marquis Who’s Who of America, and Marquis Who’s Who Women of Influence.
Beyond her professional accolades, Ms. Hopson is an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the Order of Eastern Star, Ruth Chapter #66, and First Baptist Church of Crestmont. Under her pseudonym, Charron Monaye, she has authored 25 books across six genres and brought pressing societal issues to the forefront through her stage play Get Out of Your Own Way, which has captivated audiences nationwide. Her creativity, matched by her dedication to service, serves as a beacon of inspiration for all. “My mission is to show others that the impossible is possible. When you align your passion with your purpose, you ignite a fire that no obstacle can extinguish,” Ms. Hopson declares.
Ms. Hopson’s future is rooted in her unwavering dedication to Veterans, ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve. She is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders. “True success is measured by how many lives you elevate along the way. If my journey inspires one person to rise above their circumstances, I’ve done my job.” It is Ms. Charron Michelle Hopson’s remarkable achievements, relentless drive, and unwavering commitment to service that led to her being named a Marquis Who’s Who Women of Influence honoree. Her impact on the lives of Veterans, her contributions to public service, and her creative endeavors have solidified her legacy as a woman of profound influence and inspiration.