Dr. Eric Bailey II’s Speech at the 2023 Success Coach Graduation

Memphis, TN, August 4th, 2023 – I’m super happy to be here. As Brother Richardson said, my name is Eric Bailey. I serve as Assistant Vice President for Student Academic Success at the University of Memphis. On behalf of President Bill Hardgrave, Provost David Russomanno, and Vice President Dr. Karen Weddle-West, it is with great enthusiasm that I acknowledge and celebrate the partnership between the University of Memphis and the Peer Power Institute, as well as the accomplishments of Peer Power Success Coaches.

One of the goals in President Hardgraves’ recently published strategic plan for the university is to create opportunities to succeed. A key component of this goal is success coaching, which shifts from segmented counseling to an integrated approach that focuses on student success.

I’m here to let you know that Peer Power’s model is leading the way by employing University of Memphis students, giving them meaningful work experience, and creating an enriching and lifelong bond with the university. You may not be aware, but nearly 50% of University of Memphis students are Pell-eligible. Federal Pell grants are awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need. This basically means that nearly half of our students at the university have high financial needs.

As a result, several of our students stop out or drop out, not because they are academically incapable, but because they must work to earn immediate income to support themselves and their families. Initiatives such as Peer Power not only increase the likelihood of University of Memphis students being retained at higher rates, but they also increase the social mobility of students and, ultimately, the economic impact of the city of Memphis.

The University of Memphis will continue to foster and strengthen our partnership with Mr. Cortney Richardson, Dr. Marygrace, the Peer Power Foundation, and the Peer Power Institute to create an exciting, all-encompassing student experience that encourages students to persevere, grow, and thrive, while laying the foundation for future success.

Thank you.