Longtime Safety Expert Honored as ASSP Fellow
PARK RIDGE, IL — The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has bestowed the honor of Fellow on Daniel G. Hopwood, who has made significant contributions to the occupational safety and health profession for decades. He is the 2024 recipient of the Society’s highest honor, becoming the 147th Fellow since the world’s oldest professional safety organization was founded in 1911.
“ASSP Fellows are an elite group of influential safety leaders who have played key roles in improving workplace environments as well as the safety and health profession overall,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “Dan is a highly respected expert who has broadly helped prevent injuries, illnesses and fatalities on the job.”
Hopwood, M.P.H., CSP, SMS, ARM, CBCP, FASSP, is vice president and director of risk control field services at Sompo, North America. An ASSP member since 1978, Hopwood has worked throughout his distinguished career as a risk manager, instructor, keynote speaker, author, technical expert and occupational safety and health advocate. He is an expert at developing methodologies for crisis management and business continuity planning. He also serves on the board of directors for the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.
“As a senior member of our team, Dan develops safety programs, conducts incident investigations and provides extensive safety and health training,” said Christine Sullivan, CSP, ARM, former ASSP president and current executive vice president and head of risk control at Sompo. “He is a true collaborator who is always willing to share his expertise with colleagues and mentor industry newcomers.”
Hopwood has taught undergraduate and graduate safety courses for 25 years, including time at Cuyamaca Community College, San Diego City College and San Diego State University, all in California. As a result, he has advanced the workplace safety and health profession and has profoundly impacted the careers of many students.
Hopwood has guided thousands of professionals through his many writings and by leading dozens of educational and training sessions at national conferences and seminars. He authored the book “Safety & Health Management: Essential Considerations for Human Resources and Allied Professionals” and co-authored “Workplace Safety: A Guide for Small and Midsized Companies.” He also has written chapters in several other books and has been published in more than 25 journals, magazines and professional publications.
As an ASSP volunteer leader, Hopwood has served at the local, regional and Society levels. He is past president of the San Diego Chapter and former Region I vice president. He was the San Diego Chapter Safety Professional of the Year in 2012 and earned ASSP’s Charles V. Culbertson Outstanding Volunteer Service Award in 2017.
“Dan is a constant advocate who serves our profession with impartiality and a moral compass that makes the world a better place,” said Jose Perez, CSHM, CIT, SMS, OHST, CHST, an area director in ASSP Region I. “Many have experienced the value he brings to the humanity of our profession through his equitable and inclusive leadership. His exemplary approach and positive influence make others feel welcome, visible and heard.”
Hopwood will be honored at ASSP’s Safety 2024 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, set for Aug. 7-9 in Denver. The honor of Fellow recognizes an ASSP member’s lifetime commitment, achievement and leadership in occupational safety and health. Nominees must have a history of major contributions to the profession for at least 15 years. Find a complete list of Society Fellows on the ASSP website.
About ASSP – Working together for a safer, stronger future
Since 1911, the American Society of Safety Professionals has helped occupational safety and health professionals protect people, property and the environment. The nonprofit society is based in Chicago’s suburbs. Its global membership of over 35,000 professionals develops safety and health management systems that prevent injuries, illnesses and fatalities. ASSP advances its members and the safety profession by providing member communities, serving as a trusted advisor, and elevating safety through workforce development. Its flagship journal, Professional Safety, is a longtime leader in the field. Visit www.assp.org and find us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Media contact: Blaine Krage, 847.768.3416, bkrage@assp.org