30th Anniversary Gala with Live Music, Food, and Awards!

For nearly 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.

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. Joceyln 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.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change