Durham Tech celebrates 250 years of American independence by bringing together College, community with series of events

Gabriel Baker
Sep 22, 2026

As the nation celebrates 250 years of independence, Durham Tech is remembering the people, ideas and events that shaped our country by taking a close look at the Durham community, both past and present.

This fall, Durham Tech is hosting several events and activities that showcase the history of Durham and mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Each event offers students, employees and community members opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate together.

Events planned by Durham Tech’s Dr. Jason Moldoff, Lead Instructor for Communications, are meant to bring local history to life through educational programs, campus activities, presentations, and opportunities for community engagement. Each event offers a different way to explore Durham’s history while connecting that history to the diverse experiences and perspectives of today's students and community.

“I decided the best way to honor America would be to find opportunities for the Durham Tech community to spend time together learning, in service, and in remembrance,” Moldoff said. “Our faculty, staff, and students have contributed to and grown up alongside a rich history of activism, military service, and artistry. These events bring us together in community to forge new connections and bring awareness to what makes us special.”

Moldoff said the commemorations also reflect Durham Tech's commitment to learning that extends beyond the classroom. By examining history and encouraging thoughtful conversation, the College hopes to create opportunities for students to better understand the foundations of the country and their community, and how the ideals of both grow and change.  

“I know people will leave with new knowledge about the history of Durham,” Moldoff said. “I hope they are inspired to create, speak up, and seek out more stories of our community's history. They should be proud to walk in the footsteps of those who came before them.”

In September, the College held:  

  • A community volunteer opportunity at the Fitzgerald Scent Garden at Lakewood Shopping Center.  
  • A documentary screening of “An Unlikely Friendship,” featuring filmmaker Diane Bloom.
  • A history panel and student speeches exploring local history.

Upcoming events for Durham Tech’s 250+ Celebration include:

  • Hayti Walking Tour: Discover the history and legacy of Durham’s Hayti community with Whistle Stop Tours on Oct. 2 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
  • West End Walking Tour: Explore the people, places, and stories of Durham’s historic West End, including the Pauli Murray House with Whistle Stop Tours on Oct 23 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Veterans Day Bench Dedication & Booker T. Spicely Exhibit: Join us for a special Veterans Day observance, bench dedication, and exhibit honoring the story and legacy of Booker T. Spicely in the ERC Auditorium, Building 5, Room 100 and then the Quad on Main Campus on Nov. 10 from noon to 2 p.m.

“Anniversaries are a human-created way of reminding us to remember,” Moldoff said. “There is value in being present, but these opportunities to look back offer us a chance to reflect and grow. Durham Tech celebrates America 250+ because our College wants to be a place for such reflection and growth. We have a lot to be proud of, a lot to learn from, and a lot of stories to tell and hear.”