Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change Receives $10,000 Grant From Ingersoll Rand

October 26, 2017 - The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute at the University of Memphis has received a $10,000 grant from the Ingersoll Rand Foundation to support the Hooks African-American Male Initiative (HAAMI). In 2015, the Hooks Institute launched HAAMI to increase the retention and graduation rates of African-American male students at the UofM.

Current data shows that for first-time, full-time students who graduated within a four-year period, African-American males have demonstrated an average graduation rate of 10.6 percent, significantly less than all other groups. The Hooks Institute's efforts with HAAMI are intended to help create prosperity for African-American males, which in turn helps to collectively benefit the lives of all Memphians and to create positive social change for the Mid-South and the nation.

"Trane is a proud partner with the University of Memphis along with our commitment to the Memphis community," said Jim Crone, West Tennessee business development director at Trane Mid-South, a brand of Ingersoll Rand. "We feel our support of HAAMI is a contribution to the long-term sustainability of HAAMI's mission to increase the graduation rate of African-American males, thus contributing to the overall success of diversity in our community."

The Ingersoll Rand Foundation grant will provide general operating support for the HAAMI program, support for HAAMI sessions and cultural outings, equipment, technology and support for a HAAMI resource center and HAAMI promotion. Funding will support HAAMI students as they work towards graduation.

"The Ingersoll Rand Foundation has been a great University of Memphis partner, particularly with its generous support of the Hooks African-American Male Initiative," said Rorie Trammel, assistant director and HAAMI coordinator. "We are grateful for the financial support, which enables us to offer an enriching program for University of Memphis students, as well as for the direct engagement of Trane employees in HAAMI program activities."

About the Ingersoll Rand Foundation
The Ingersoll Rand Foundation is committed to advancing the quality of life through charitable partnerships to help build safe, comfortable, efficient and educated communities. Ingersoll Rand is committed to good corporate citizenship and believes that advancing the quality of life requires taking an active role in addressing the social issues impacting our company and communities.

About the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change
The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute implements its mission of teaching, studying and promoting civil rights and social change through research, education and direct intervention programs. For 20 years, we have addressed disparities related to education, diversity and inclusion, economic mobility and civic engagement. To learn more about our current initiatives, visit our website at www.memphis.edu/benhooks.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Nathaniel C. Ball
901.678.3655