While at the university, he was instrumental in obtaining state affiliation, transitioning to a racially integrated status, and expanding enrollment in multiple locations.

Hoffman received a BBA from Pacific Union College in 1938, and a Master's degree in History from the University of Southern California in 1942.

[2] He then served in the United States Navy during World War II as an intelligence officer.

During his time as president, Hoffman helped to found the University of Houston System.

Upon retirement from the University of Houston System, Hoffman served as President of the Texas Medical Center from 1981 until 1984.