Feb. 27, 2025 ̶ ̶ ̶ On Wednesday, April 23, the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change at the University of Memphis will honor organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing equity, inclusion and social justice. They include A2H Engineers Architects Planners, Just City and the Memphis Business Journal along with the Honorable Bernice B. Donald, Dorothy Cleaves and Dr. Andy Meyers.
The Hooks Institute proudly recognizes these honorees for their impactful contributions to the community in their respective fields. Their dedication to the greater Memphis communities has helped create a stronger, more vibrant Memphis by uplifting those who remain at the margins of society.
The Gala will take place in the Maxine A. Smith University Center Ballroom at the University of Memphis from 6-8 p.m. and will include dinner, live music and the awards presentation. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Proceeds from the event will support the Hooks Institute’s vital programs, including community engagement, faculty research, student success initiatives and the preservation of civil rights history. Members of the community are invited to join the Hooks Institute in celebrating these leaders. Individual tickets for the event are $125, and a full table of eight can be purchased for $1,200 through Eventbrite.
The Pillars of Progress Awards Gala is sponsored by Nike, Cigna and Pinnacle Financial Partners. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Amy Ruggaber, assistant director, at amy.ruggaber@memphis.edu 901.678.3974.
About the Honorees
Organizations
- A2H Engineers Architects Planners: As the architects behind the Hooks Institute’s newly renovated space, A2H has enhanced the Institute’s ability to serve diverse communities with an open and inspiring environment for staff, students and the public.
- Just City : Known for its national leadership in criminal justice reform, Just City’s advocacy, research and public defense initiatives have helped ensure that economically disadvantaged individuals can remain connected to their communities while navigating the legal system.
- Memphis Business Journal: This premiere business publication not only highlights diverse economic achievements and business leaders but also sheds light on systemic barriers that hinder marginalized communities, fostering stronger connections and opportunities for inclusion.
Individuals
- The Honorable Bernice B. Donald: A pioneering jurist, Judge Donald has broken barriers as the first African American woman elected to the General Sessions Court and has served with distinction in the U.S. judiciary, all while mentoring young lawyers and supporting the Hooks Institute as an advisory board member.
- Dorothy Cleaves: As Senior Vice President at Truist Bank, Cleaves has dedicated her career to supporting underrepresented communities through impactful investments. Her leadership and personal commitment have greatly benefitted the Hooks Institute’s student success programs.
- Dr. Andy Meyers: During his tenure at the University of Memphis, Meyers played a pivotal role in advancing the Hooks Institute’s capacity for impactful research and programming. As former chair of the Hooks Advisory Board, he helped achieve critical programmatic and financial goals.
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. Institute programs include community outreach; funding faculty research initiatives on community issues; implementing community service projects; hosting conferences, symposiums, and lectures; and promoting local and national scholarship on civil and human rights. The Hooks Institute is an interdisciplinary center at the University of Memphis. Contributed revenue for the Hooks Institute, including funding from individuals, corporations, and foundations, is administered through the University of Memphis Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization.
Media Contact:
Amy Ruggaber, Assistant Director
The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change
University of Memphis
