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The goal of the The Hooks African American Male Initiative (HAAMI) is to increase the retention and graduation rates of African American males attending the University of Memphis. The HAAMI program does this by enriching each student's academic development, personal development and career readiness. HAAMI students are prepared to make substantive and noteworthy contributions to their communities, families and organizations.
HAAMI is aligned with several Tennessee initiatives, such as Tennessee Promise, Drive to 55 and Complete Tennessee that target higher education attainment in the state. The economic potential for African American males in Shelby County is directly linked to the economic potential of the county overall. As skills, educational attainment, and career readiness improve for African American males, (who comprise over 20% of the county population), they will be able to pursue more lucrative professional opportunities and become contributors to the Memphis area economy. Moreover, Shelby County and the City of Memphis will be able to tout a strong, attractive workforce to national corporations considering relocation to the area. Finally, HAAMI seeks to foster academic, civic and professional responsibility among its members so that they become responsible members and leaders of their families, local communities, state and nation.The Hooks Institute looks forward to the contributions of these talented students.
HAAMI is a program of the Benajmin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change at the University of Memphis.The Hooks Institute is named after civil rights icon Benjamin L. Hooks. The Hooks Institute's mission of teaching, studying and promoting civil rights and social change is implemented through research, education and direct intervention programs. For over 22 years, we have addressed disparities related to education, diversity and inclusion. For more information about the Hooks Institute, please visit www.memphis.edu/benhooks.
