60 for 60: Second President of the College, Dr. John Crumpton Jr.

In celebration of Durham Technical Community College’s 60th anniversary, the College is publishing 60 for 60 – a storytelling campaign that highlights the people, places, and events that have progressed and shaped the College’s six decades of impact. To view more 60 for 60 stories, visit www.durhamtech.edu/60for60. 

Dr. John Crumpton Jr. was the second president of Durham Industrial Education Center, serving from May 1, 1975 until April 1980.  

Crumpton received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Education from Auburn University and Education Doctoral Degree from North Carolina State University.  

Under Crumpton’s presidency, the College expanded to include a library, the Edward L. Phillips building, a day care center, and the George W. Newton Industrial & Engineering Center. A maintenance building (1976) and storage building (1979) were also completed under his administration. 

During Crumpton’s tenure, an automotive apprenticeship program and forensic science curriculum were created, basketball program began, and various clubs and organizations were established such as Circle K Club and DTI Concert Choir. 

Colleagues who worked with Crumpton remember him as a dedicated and caring president. 

“Dr. Crumpton was a very good president, very dedicated, and concerned about all of the students at Durham Tech. I enjoyed working with him,” said Louise Gooch, former Durham Tech employee of 31 years. 

“He was a good and very fair president. He wanted to help everyone if he could. His door was always open for us to talk with him,” said Sylvia Hunt, former Durham Tech employee of 34 years. 

Dr. Crumpton’s wife also played a significant role in helping to create team leaders at the College and developing team-building activities.  

During his five-year presidency, Dr. John Crumpton’s leadership had significant impacts on the College’s campus, course offerings, and student activities and positioned it for continued growth. 

For more information, contact Desiree Towson, M.S., Communications and Public Relations Coordinator, at allisontowsond@durhamtech.edu.