The Stories They Hear: Expecting Greatness as the Key to Success

The Stories They Hear is a profound testament to the power of mentorship and the impact one visionary program has had on America's best and brightest African American male college students.

Through the Institute for Responsible Citizenship, Dr. Bill Keyes has transformed the lives of over 300 young men, including Rhodes Scholars, Fulbright Scholars, doctors, lawyers, professors, and community leaders. Founded in 2003, the Institute has helped these men achieve remarkable success, nurturing their talents and instilling values of resilience, respect, and service.

This book offers readers an intimate glimpse into the Institute’s life-changing experiences. Each chapter is filled with personal stories and valuable lessons shared by Dr. Keyes with his scholars over two decades. Key insights include identifying one’s gifts, using influence responsibly, and practicing resilience in the face of adversity. These stories, once shared in a Washington DC conference room, now invite readers to be inspired by the guidance that has shaped these young men into leaders and role models.

The Stories They Hear is an inspiring guide for mentors, educators, and anyone invested in helping young people unlock their potential to create a legacy that empowers future generations.

Winner of 7 Book Awards!
2026 AMERICAN LEGACY AWARDS WINNER
2025 ROYAL DRAGONFLY BOOK AWARD 1ST PLACE WINNER
2025 NYC BIG BOOK AWARD WINNER

William A. Keyes IV moved to Washington more than 40 years ago to work on Capitol Hill for the Joint Economic Committee and then as a White House Senior Policy Advisor. In 2001, he established the Institute for Responsible Citizenship, the crowning achievement of his professional life. In addition to his work at the Institute, he is active at his alma mater, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; a proud member of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity; a devoted member of Alfred Street Baptist Church; and a corporate director of Union Bank (UBNC). He is also a proud husband, father and grandfather.