Hooks Institute Programs
Who We Serve
- The University of Memphis, Local and National Communities: Our programs focus on addressing challenges in Memphis, with the goal of creating positive outcomes that have national applicability.
- Educators Nationwide: We provide specialized training on civil rights history, particularly as it unfolded in the Mid-South.
- University of Memphis Students: The Hooks Academic Achievement and Mentoring Initiative provides students with opportunities for intensive academic support, career readiness, financial literacy, and professional skills coaching.
- University Faculty: We collaborate with faculty at the University of Memphis and beyond who benefit from publication opportunities and grants to study societal disparities and their root causes.
- Policymakers and Leaders: Individuals, grassroots activists, federal and local officials, and business leaders who seek to utilize the Institute’s research for program and policy development.
- Historians: We preserve and archive materials and first-hand accounts which support insights on social justice or civil rights, particularly regarding events in the Mid-South.
Our Programs
Archival Preservation
The University’s Special Collections houses photographs, documents and writings of civil rights activists.
Research with the Hooks Institute Archives >
Documentary Films
Documentaries and videos examine past and contemporary civil rights and social justice events.
Hooks Policy Papers
Annual publication that analyzes disparities and proposes policy solutions.
Read the Hooks Policy Papers >
Faculty Research Grants
Seed grants are awarded to researchers to identify and study racial and other disparities.
Apply for Hooks Institute Grants >
Hooks Academic Achievement and Mentoring Initiative (HAAMI)
An intensive mentoring and coaching program to improve graduation rates and professional outcomes for University of Memphis undergraduate male students.
The Frances Dancy Hooks Art Award and Exhibition
National Book Award
Awarded each calendar year to a book that best furthers our understanding of the civil rights movement.
View Hooks Book Award Winners >
Community Outreach
Public events featuring award-winning authors, activists and lectures.
For more information, navigate through the sidebar to explore Hooks Institute programs in greater detail.
Support Our Work
Your gift makes these programs possible!