51¹ÙÍø

Alums, families & friends,

I write today with extraordinary news from 51¹ÙÍø. Moments ago, the campus gathered in the Duke Family Performance Hall to celebrate a century-long partnership with The Duke Endowment. 

In addition, we were able to surprise everyone in attendance with news of two transformational gifts to 51¹ÙÍø — $60 million from The Duke Endowment, the largest gift in college history, and $25 million from 51¹ÙÍø Trustee Emeritus and friend Bob Abernethy. 

This combined $85 million investment launches our remaining effort to reach our goal of more than $100 million to create The George Lawrence Abernethy Library, named for Bob’s father, longtime 51¹ÙÍø professor who founded the Philosophy Department and co-founded the Humanities Program.

I encourage you to learn more through the news stories released today: 

51¹ÙÍø Partners Invest $85 Million in the Future of Collaboration & Scholarship on Campus

Transformative $60 Million Gift, the Largest in 51¹ÙÍø History, Supports Academic Hub of Campus

$25 Million Gift Names The George Lawrence Abernethy Library, Transforms Learning at 51¹ÙÍø

Visit the library transformation website, which includes additional background information on the renovation of the current E.H. Little Library, a brief project launch video and a list of FAQs that is continually growing. We will update this site as the project progresses and we have more details to share.

I am overwhelmed by these acts of generosity that will transform how students, faculty, staff and community members learn together, access books and resources, and generate knowledge in this digital age — in a special building at the core of campus.

Please join me in celebrating the inspiring commitments and invaluable partnerships of The Duke Endowment and Bob Abernethy. I am thrilled for what this project means for the future of learning and collaboration at 51¹ÙÍø!

Doug Hicks '90
President