Duke is undeniably one of the top universities in the world and a leader in life-saving research that boasts billions in endowment. Duke donates millions to charity and flaunts a carefully curated image of community partnership; In 2023, Duke paraded “nearly $24 million” in community contributions. That sounds amazing, yet Duke controls over $787 million in assessed property (about 2% of the county and 3% of the city).
As a nonprofit, most of that is exempt — hence Duke paid $2 million in property taxes in 2024 versus the $11 million they would pay if taxable (and that, even, is a low-end estimate, according to Durham county officials). Duke consistently profits from its historical power and non-profit status. By sheltering its wealth behind nonprofit status, Duke saves millions that would otherwise support Durham’s public schools and other services – profits for the university, and more losses for the city’s poorest residents.
This Duke-Durham gap is not simply a result of Duke’s neglect. Rather, it’s exploitation framed as philanthropy. Duke has crushed Durham for generations by reinforcing redlining, aligning with the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) and sustaining local slave owning dynasties…