Her support of and interest in professional and personal growth of women was a unifying thread throughout her career in education and public service. She was a leader in the establishment of not only the Women's Center but the Women's Studies Program and on-campus day care services and oversaw development of the University's first Affirmative Action Plan. She served as coordinator of continuing education for women, and then as assistant and associate dean of the Division of Extended and Continuing Education, before retiring in 1988. She served on the board of directors of the National University Continuing Education Association. Roper was actively involved in state politics and civic activities, and served on a number of state commissions, local boards and civic organizations.
Roper leaves three sons.