The Why Not Win Institute (WNWI) is embarking on an ambitious journey to bring its transformative message to Alabama’s Black Belt region, led by the visionary efforts of Coach Joe Eatmon. Drawing from his extensive experience in education and deep understanding of the region’s unique challenges, Dean Eatmon is spearheading this initiative to address the urgent need for strengthening education and learning in these historically underserved communities.

Dean Eatmon’s approach extends beyond the traditional classroom setting, encompassing a holistic vision for community development. By introducing the principles of “Why Not Win?” to the Black Belt, he aims to ignite a passion for learning and achievement among students, while also fostering a culture of excellence that can drive broader socio-economic upliftment. “Our goal is not just to educate, but to inspire and empower,” says Dean Eatmon. “We believe that by instilling the ‘Why Not Win?’ philosophy in these communities, we can create lasting change that goes far beyond academic achievement.”

This initiative represents a significant expansion of WNWI’s reach, promising to touch countless lives across the region. Dean Eatmon, serving as WNWI’s Head Coach, has already arranged visitations and closed agreements with six Alabama Black Belt Schools (ABBS) Superintendents. Over 600 books, along with WNWI workbooks, have been delivered and are currently under in-class study through history and social studies classes for eleventh and seventh graders. Dean Eatmon will be randomly monitoring classes as he arranges visits with the remaining six ABBS Superintendents for the second half of the 2025 school year.

Under Dean Eatmon’s leadership, WNWI is set to announce additional programs, partnerships with local schools, and community events that will bring the inspiring message of WNWI directly to the heart of the Black Belt. As plans unfold, WNWI is poised to make a significant impact, potentially transforming the educational landscape and future prospects for generations to come.

Larry Thornton was invited to speak at Leadership Montgomery Unity Award event, a testament to WNWI’s growing influence in promoting community cohesion. This prestigious award, created to recognize partnerships that enhance Montgomery’s quality of life, aligns perfectly with WNWI’s mission of fostering leadership across cultural lines.

Thornton’s address highlighted the importance of unity in leadership and

 community building, drawing from the principles outlined in “Why Not Win?”. As a special gesture, Thornton presented a custom piece of art to Cheryl Johnson, CEO of Leadership Montgomery, symbolizing the creative spirit that drives positive change in our communities.

Larry Thornton recently delivered the empowering message of the Why Not Win Institute to the Sunrise Rotary Club Breakfast. At this event, Thornton shared insights from his journey and the core principles of WNWI’s philosophy, touching on themes of perseverance, community engagement, and the power of a winning mindset.

This engagement underscored WNWI’s commitment to community development and opened doors for potential collaborations to further amplify the institute’s impact across the region.

 Today marks the launch of the highly-anticipated graphic novel “You Have to Live…Why Not Win?,” an epic tale of adventure, bravery, and self-discovery.

Written by Dr. Dave Ketchen and Larry D. Thornton, “You Have to Live…Why Not Win?” follows Larry’s adventures from growing up poor and black in 1960s Alabama to becoming an accomplished entrepreneur and respected business leader. From his story, three pervasive themes emerge from Larry’s journey that will encourage all.

With stunning artwork by Dave Dodson and an engaging storyline, “You Have to Live…Why Not Win?” is a must-read for all. It appeals to readers of all ages and backgrounds, and is perfect for anyone loves a story of inspiration.

Co-founder and Executive Director of The Why Not Win Institute  Dr. Zillah Fluker is excited about the second iteration of the book and its message.

“We are thrilled about the release of ‘You Have to Live…Why Not Win?’ graphic novel, and excited about its potential to reach and inspire young people in K-12 education, particularly in grades 7-12,” Zillah said. “We are grateful to have Restoration Academy as a pilot partner school for this project, and we believe that Larry’s powerful story can have a positive impact on all who read it.” –

Larry stated that this new iteration of the Why Not Win? Series is a true labor of love and there are things for all to enjoy.

“We thought that adapting an approach to capturing the tenets of “Why Not Win” through an illustrated format might be meaningful to an audience of all ages,” Larry said.

Dave, co-author and Harbert Eminent Scholar in Management at Auburn University, has written three graphic novels in the past and felt that Larry’s story was a natural fit for the format because many of Larry’s life events are emotionally evocative in a way that words alone cannot fully capture.

“The earlier in life people can be reached with positive messages about working hard and relating hard, the better,” Dave said. “The main goal behind this book is offering ideas to young adults that will help them grow up to be winners. But older folks are loving the message as well.”

“You Have to Live…Why Not Win?” is now available for $19.95 online at whynotwin.org.

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About the Why Not Win Institute

The Why Not Win Institute was founded in 2019 by Dr. Zillah Fluker and Larry D. Thornton. The Institute is an on-profit organization whose motto is “work hard, relate hard.” Building on this motto and guided by the core belief that we all can win in life, the institute helps individuals achieve excellence by delivering positive messages about personal accountability, relationship building, effective communication, and other important values. The institute develops and cultivates leaders among three main constituencies: corporations and business, colleges and universities and secondary schools (grades 7 through 12). To learn more about the Institute, please visit whynotwin.org