91ɬÂþ

Alums, families & friends,

I write today with extraordinary news from 91ɬÂþ. 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 91ɬÂþ — $60 million from The Duke Endowment, the largest gift in college history, and $25 million from 91ɬÂþ 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 91ɬÂþ professor who founded the Philosophy Department and co-founded the Humanities Program.

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

91ɬÂþ Partners Invest $85 Million in the Future of Collaboration & Scholarship on Campus

Transformative $60 Million Gift, the Largest in 91ɬÂþ History, Supports Academic Hub of Campus

$25 Million Gift Names The George Lawrence Abernethy Library, Transforms Learning at 91ɬÂþ

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 91ɬÂþ!

Doug Hicks '90
President