Established in 1983, the ‘Mary Lou’ (as it is affectionately referred to by students) remains a safe, welcoming, and supportive space that strives to reflect the core values, culture, and perspectives of Duke’s diverse Black community.
SOLD OUT: Join the Mary Lou Williams Center in celebrating 40 Years of Black excellence.
Saturday, September 30, 2023
6:30pm - 8:30pm
The Cotton Room
807 E Main Street
Durham, North Carolina
Attire: Business Formal Attire
40th Anniversary Celebration
Opening ceremonies for the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture occurred September 23rd-25th, 1983 with celebratory events alongside keynote speaker Toni Morrison. The 2023 celebration will be held during the same timeframe to commemorate its 40th year at Duke University. The event will bring together alumni, campus partners, and community leaders for an evening of celebration in support of the Center.
Donor Commitment Levels
A commitment of this level can help support the effort to endow funds for the annual Black History Month Keynote Speaker and Lecture series. This level includes a table for 8 at the Gala.
A commitment of this level can help support student programs and events such as the On the Way Experiential Learning Program which is a 3-day retreat which engages first year students in an asset-based approach to racial socialization and resilience in college. This level includes entry for 4 to the Gala.
A commitment of this level can help support the professional and career development of students by supplying funds and resources to attend conferences and networking events, which includes acquiring attire when needed. This level includes entry for 2 to the Gala.
A commitment of this level can help support initiatives to unify Black Duke and Durham communities in an effort to intentionally engage current students with the local area. This level includes entry for one to the Gala.
A commitment of this level can help provide support for our student internship program which emphasizes learning and developing essential skills in identity development, communication, social change, and event management for student leaders. This level includes entry for one to the Gala.
A commitment of this level can help sustain current programs and initiatives of the Mary Lou Williams Center. This level also helps us create an opportunity for one student to attend the Gala