Hooks Institute Receives $5,000 Grant to Support HAAMI
The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute at the University of Memphis has received a $5,000
grant from the Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis 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 University
of Memphis.
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 11.7 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 create positive
social change for the Mid-South and the nation.
About PBWM
The Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis' focus centers around education, children
and families, and programs that prepare Memphis citizens to become self-sufficient.
To date, PBWM has awarded $70,000. Members of the organization include: Mary McDaniel,
Edith Kelly-Green, Carolyn Hardy, Debra Evans, Monice Hagler, Nelda Burroughs, Deidre
Malone and Belinda Watkins. For more information about the PBWM and future grant opportunities,
visit the website at www.pbwmemphis.org.
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 current
initiatives, please visit our website at memphis.edu/benhooks.
CONTACT
Nathaniel C. Ball I 901.678.3655 I ncball@memphis.edu