In an illuminating conversation, K-LOVE’s Crystal Thornton sits down with Dr. William Keyes, founder of the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. A passionate educator, author, and man of deep faith, Dr. Keyes has devoted his life to empowering high-achieving African-American men—helping them discover not only their purpose, but also their calling from God.
(Listen to the complete interview in the podcast below.)
Founded in 2003, the Institute for Responsible Citizenship is a highly selective leadership program that welcomes 12 of the “best and brightest” Black male college students each year. Over two intensive summers in Washington, D.C., these young men engage in rigorous academic seminars, faith-informed mentorship, and prestigious internships. But more than professional preparation, the Institute encourages each participant to live a life of service, integrity, and spiritual purpose.
Dr. Keyes says the program’s foundation is clear: “God has blessed you with something special—and that gift is not just for you.”
Faith Is the Foundation
Crystal: Dr. Keyes, the very first word in your book The Stories They Hear is “God.” Why was that so important?
Dr. Keyes: “There’s something I say every year—at orientation, at graduation, and often in between: ‘God has blessed you with something special.’ And I pause… and I say it again. He gave you that gift not only so you would discover it and develop it—but so you would use it to glorify Him, and bring blessing to the lives of His people.”
Faith isn’t an afterthought in Dr. Keyes’ work—it’s central. As he puts it, “If I’m a man of faith, then why wouldn’t much of what I do and say reflect God’s purpose in my life?”
Choosing the Overlooked, Not the Obvious
Crystal: You’ve said the Institute isn’t just looking for the students with perfect résumés—but those with potential that’s often overlooked. Can you explain?
Dr. Keyes:“We’re selecting the best and the brightest—but many of them have been ignored.Think about how churches approach outreach. Often, they look for kids in trouble and ask, ‘How can we help?’ That’s beautiful—but the unintended consequence is, those who are already doing well get passed over. There are talented, hardworking young Black men who are quietly succeeding—ambitious to make a difference—and no one’s investing in them. That’s who we serve.”
And the results are extraordinary. Alumni of the Institute now serve as pastors, professors, surgeons, policy leaders—and even a New York State Supreme Court Justice.
Faith Over Offense and Purpose Over Ego
In his new book, The Stories They Hear: Expecting Greatness as the Key to Success, Dr. Keyes shares the spiritual and practical wisdom he imparts to the young men in the program.
One striking theme is his advice to reject the culture of offense.
Crystal: There are three chapters in your book centered on not being offended. Why?
Dr. Keyes: “We live in a world where everybody’s offended about everything. You have to get over yourself. When someone says something off, I assume they didn’t mean harm—it’s just how they talk. That perspective frees you to stay focused on your calling.”
He also challenges the popular self-help mantra, “If you can conceive it, you can achieve it."
"I don’t believe that. What I believe is: the Lord has blessed me with certain gifts. It’s my job to identify, develop, and use them—to glorify Him and serve others. That’s true success.”
More Than a Mentor: A Spiritual Father
Crystal: As the Institute enters its 23rd year, would you say you’ve become more than just a mentor to these young men?
Dr. Keyes: “I have 300 sons—and they’re my sons for life. Six are Rhodes Scholars. These young men are winning awards not because that’s the goal—but because they’re walking in God’s purpose. That’s the secret. That’s the difference.”
And through it all, gratitude grounds him.
“I feel like I am doing precisely what the Lord put me on this earth to do. How could I not be thankful? I have an amazing wife, wonderful children, I’m now a grandfather—and I have 300 sons. How on earth could I not be thankful?”
A Beacon of Hope and Calling
The Institute for Responsible Citizenship is more than a program—it’s a movement of faith-fueled leadership. Dr. Keyes’ vision, and the lives of those he’s mentored, offer powerful proof of what’s possible when young people are taught to pursue not just achievement, but calling.
His book, The Stories They Hear, is a call to expect greatness, to speak life, and to walk boldly in purpose. Whether you’re a student, a parent, a pastor, or a leader, the truths in this book can challenge and inspire you to think deeper, aim higher, and live with intention.
Learn more at theinstitute.net