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The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change

The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change

Advancing Social Change and Strengthening Democracy Through Research, Service and Historical Preservation.

Panel Discussion on Breast Health Research and Hooks Policy Papers!

Flyer for Hooks Breast Health Research Panel

 

On February 23, 2026, the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change will present a panel discussion titled “Breast Health in Memphis: Research, Policy & Action.” The event will be held at the University Center, River Room (300), 5:30 PM.
 
Researchers from the UT Health Science Center and the University of Memphis’s Loewenberg School of Nursing will present findings from an NIH-funded grant on breast health in segregated communities in Memphis. The research reveals that Black women living in segregated communities experience higher breast cancer mortality rates when compared to White women living in segregated communities.
 
The findings from this study will be published in the “Policy Papers of the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change” Winter 2026. This edition of the Policy Papers was funded by the NIH grant, and copies will be available at the event.
 
Additionally, at this event, the West Cancer Foundation (Memphis, TN) will provide breast health resources to the public, including assistance with mammogram scheduling and access to additional supportive services.
 
This event is free and open to the public, registration is encouraged.  Register here: memphis.edu/hookshealth2026
 
 

Celebrate Our 30th Anniversary with Us!

A golden numeral 30 sits against a black background with the hooks institute logo in the center.

Celebrate 30 Years of the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change with live music, food, & our 2026 Pillars of Progress Award Winners!

 

For 30 years, the Hooks Institute has united partners from the public, private, nonprofit, and university sectors to take on challenges that hold communities back — from poverty and barriers to good health, to gaps in opportunity and education. We champion civil rights scholarship, preserve history, prepare University of Memphis students for bright, successful futures, and work with communities to solve community problems.

Our progress has been made possible by a powerful community of supporters — generous donors, dedicated staff, and visionary partners — who believe in Memphis and in the promise of social change.

As we mark our 30th anniversary in 2026, we remain committed to bold, innovative work that transforms lives. We are 30 years and still rising — and we invite you to rise with us to build a Memphis where everyone can reach their full potential.

Join us in our celebration!  Tickets are available now at memphis.edu/hooksgala!  

 

A great community requires many pillars to support the whole.

The Hooks Institute honors the 2026 Pillars of Progress:

 

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Honored for its community outreach efforts and art exhibitions that explore to the cultural interest and lived experiences of all Memphians.

The Tri-State Defender. From 1951 to present, this newspaper has been the voice of African American life in Memphis—past, present, and future.

The Hon. Johnnie Turner. A fearless 1960s civil rights activist and longtime educator served Memphis as State Representative for District 85 from 2010 to 2018.

Ms. Jocelyn Wurzburg. Co-founder of the Panel of American Women after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1968 assassination to promote healing and racial unity in Memphis.

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets today!

 

Hooks Institute: Only Forward