Meet key changemakers shaping Durham’s future, as told by those who know them well
Photography by John Michael Simpson
Angela Lee
Executive Director, Hayti Heritage Center
Leadership and service are in Angela Lee’s DNA, and we’re fortunate to have her at the helm of one of Durham’s anchor institutions, St. Joseph’s Historic Foundation/Hayti Heritage Center. The Hayti Heritage Center, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, is much more than a building that hosts outstanding cultural and artistic programs. It’s a landmark – a heart space – a gathering place of pride that elevates the fullness of Black culture in Durham – past, present and future.
Angela is meeting the challenge of sustaining and transforming this special place. Needs and priorities are constantly changing, and there’s never enough time, money or staff to satisfy demand. Yet Angela works closely with her team and community members to keep Hayti thriving. After a pandemic that permanently closed countless institutions, Hayti Heritage Center emerged strong. It expanded programming, deepened community engagement, forged new national partnerships, and secured major funding from local and federal sources for much-needed facility improvements. In her own way, Angela continues the legacy of her trailblazing parents. Her father, Howard Lee, was the first Black mayor of Chapel Hill, chair of the North Carolina State Board of Education and a state senator. Her mother, Ms. Lillian Lee, is a well-respected retired educator, community advocate and volunteer.
Angela is reserved, never seeking the spotlight, but always quietly getting things done. With strong skills and experience, including a law degree from UNC, she is analytical and effective. Behind her warm smile, strategy is forming and ideas are brewing. She’s focused on how to tackle problems, serve the community and ensure that we are “preserving and advancing the heritage and culture of historic Hayti, Durham and the African American experience.” – by Lois Deloatch, nonprofit advisor and musician
Angela’s 2024 Highlights
“I am proud that Hayti has made its mark in preservation and in the arts: We restored the pews in our historic performance hall; received a civil rights trail marker and an additional listing on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of the former church’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement; and awarded stipends to 55 local artists in the first round of American Rescue Plan Act funding, which will have a significant impact on Durham’s arts ecosystem.” – Angela Lee
A Hope for the Future
“When I think of 2025, I think of the Hayti Heritage Center, which turns 50 this year! What a wonderful feeling to know that we continue to honor the visionaries who imagined a cultural arts organization five decades ago. My hope is that the next generations of visionaries will be a guiding light that elevates the arts to greater heights – unimaginable heights – through music, dance, sports, painting, poetry, literature, film, design and much more. The arts matter.” – Angela Lee
Mike Birling
Vice president of Baseball Operations, Durham Bulls
In 20-plus years working with Mike Birling, the sharp edges of leadership, ambition and ego were never an issue. He is a genuinely nice guy. Mike also possesses a remarkable work ethic and sense of determination. He rarely needed me for motivation. More often, I was trying to yank his foot off the gas!
This will probably land him in HR jail: At a recent staff luncheon, managers were joking about receiving Mike’s emails at bedtime and again the following morning. That’s Mike, 24/7. Consider his childhood role model: He was a Michael Jordan fan growing up – he even attended an MJ hoops camp in Chicago. Like Jordan, Birling wants to be the best, and he’s willing to put in the work. It’s both intimidating and inspiring for his coworkers.
Mike was a general manager in Minor League Baseball’s Midwest League at 23. At 30, he was the youngest GM in the Bulls’ International League. He’s been awarded Executive of the Year twice by the IL, honored by Baseball America magazine, and, this past year, the Bulls were chosen as the Triple-A Organization of the Year by Minor League Baseball.
There’s one more noteworthy Birling virtue, and that is loyalty, writ large. Twenty-seven years in Durham is the proof. Mike’s parents fostered dozens of kids when he was growing up. Maybe that accounts for the sense of family he’s cultivated among the Durham Bulls Athletic Park staff and his personal dedication to the Bulls.
In the community, Mike has been devoted to the Durham Bulls Youth Athletic League, and the team’s Explorer Post 50 has been training fledgling sports broadcasters for more than 25 years. Dozens of nonprofits receive tickets and promotional support from the Bulls each season.
While the ball club has been incredibly successful on the field, Mike’s triumph has been in the front office as an innovator with marketing and the fan experience. He brings a high-tech touch to our very old game. With the resources of Capitol Broadcasting Company and continuing investments from the City of Durham, Mike helmed major ballpark renovations in 2014 and 2022. The DBAP remains a centerpiece of the downtown Durham renaissance. And rest assured, Mike’s on the job. 24/7. – by George Habel, retired vice president, Sports Group, Capitol Broadcasting Company
Mike’s 2024 Highlights
“The proudest moment of 2024 was when the Durham Bulls were named Triple-A Organization of the Year by Minor League Baseball. To be recognized by your peers for all the hard work put in by our staff is always rewarding.” – Mike Birling
A Hope for the Future
“Working in MiLB for 30-plus years, I get to see what sports can do for communities. My biggest hope for change in 2025 is what I get to see at Bulls games, with so many diverse groups of people all having fun and cheering together, somehow spilling out into our everyday lives. If we can come together as a community at Bulls games, my hope is that we can come together as a community daily and see the best in people.” – Mike Birling
Melissa E. Perez
Founder, Grupo LEAL
Principal intern, Little River Montessori School
Executive board member, Foreign Language Association of North Carolina
The first word that comes to mind when I think about Melissa Pérez is “resiliente.” She is not only resilient, but also a barrier breaker, which allows her to create a safe and nurturing learning environment within Durham Public Schools as well as the Durham community. Melissa is an upholder and warrior of social justice, with so much to bring to the table. She not only advocates, she also really practices what she preaches.
I first met Melissa through a DPS online family engagement event during the pandemic. Melissa and I were both serving as Spanish interpreters, but she had a glow about her that was intriguing. I could feel her passion across the screen as she delivered relevant information to these families. She was poised and confident, and I immediately knew that I had found a like-minded advocate for change and anti-racism for marginalized groups.
Melissa, a polyglot, previously worked for Pender County Schools before she came to Durham in 2006. She began her career with DPS as a world languages teacher, teaching both French and Spanish. She worked as a dual-language high school and middle school teacher in each respective language. It was there she began to significantly enrich the curriculum and coursework by dedicating her time to ensuring that all students, regardless of their country of origin, had a voice and knew that they were welcome. She encouraged many of the Latino(e) and immigrant students (and teachers) to discuss their culture and share stories around their lived experiences. She is a pioneer for justice who was well ahead of her time; she didn’t know that she would later accept a position within DPS’ Central Services as the K-12 dual languages/world languages coordinator where she would create and facilitate “DPS Celebrates,” an online event where cultural awareness and exchange were at the forefront. She coached teachers across the district and fostered a safe, welcoming space where staff, students, and families could share their experiences, while also educating the community on equity.
Her impactful contributions extend beyond the classroom. The creation of Grupo LEAL illustrates her drive to provide Latino(e) students in DPS with a culturally relevant platform that would focus on the rich culture, heritage, diversity and language of Latino(e) students and their families. She told me about her passion child, “LEAL,” and how she’d been working with teenage Latino(e) students in DPS. From there, the program was initiated and currently works as an advocacy group within the school district at more than 10 schools and fosters a platform for empowerment and awareness. Moreover, Melissa’s commitment to family and community engagement, coupled with her unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, exemplifies a holistic approach to building inclusivity and unity. Her multifaceted efforts have undoubtedly left a lasting positive impact on the cultural and social fabric of the community.
Melissa’s generous contribution and assistance with creating a culturally relevant food pantry at Fayetteville Street Elementary School warmed my heart, but also made the students and their families feel seen and cared for. Securing a $10,000 grant from the DPS Foundation is a testament to her outstanding commitment and achievement. This financial support not only recognizes, but also amplifies, her initiatives, ensuring sustained efforts in cultural advocacy for Latino(e) students in DPS and the community. Melissa’s hard work and drive are harnessed in some of the most precious gifts that we can share with our fellow humankind – a crucial investment of time, energy and resources. This, in turn, allows doors of opportunity to open to our neighbors by fostering inclusivity and empowering the next generation to be great through education and cultural enrichment. – by Tonita Flowers, program coordinator, TakeCare Durham
Melissa’s 2024 Highlights
“I approach my work and accomplishments with a deep
sense of thankfulness. I am grateful to simply be here, alive and able to continue the work I’m most passionate about: advocating for marginalized communities. I’m thankful for the opportunity to grow Grupo LEAL, a program I founded to create safe spaces for Latinx students to explore identity, access resources and have the difficult yet necessary conversations that shape their futures. Thanks to grant funding from the DPS Foundation, Grupo LEAL expanded to four additional schools this year – three elementary and one middle. I’m also thankful for the opportunity to complete my second master’s degree in school administration, earning my principal’s license in May Finally, I’m honored to have been selected as a 2024 LatinxEd Fellow. This program profoundly shaped me as a leader, deepening my commitment to equity and empowering me to continue advocating for systemic change in education.” – Melissa Perez
A Hope for the Future
“My biggest hope for 2025 is to see meaningful strides in creating a more inclusive and equitable education system, particularly for marginalized students and families who navigate unique challenges. I have witnessed the profound impact of providing spaces where students feel safe, supported and valued for who they are. In 2025, I hope to see schools and communities continue to embrace programs like Grupo LEAL. I also hope for greater support for students and families facing uncertain and challenging circumstances, including those navigating barriers related to immigration status. My dream is for every student to have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their background or the obstacles they face. This includes clear pathways to higher education, mentorship and the reassurance that their schools and communities are standing with them, ready to support their dreams. On a broader scale, I hope for a renewed commitment from educational leaders to prioritize social-emotional well-being for students and staff alike. We’ve faced years of challenges – from a global pandemic to increasing social divides – and now, more than ever, we need schools to be places of healing, growth and equity. My hope is to lead by example in creating schools that are not just institutions of learning, but also beacons of hope, transformation and opportunity for every student. Together, I believe we can build an educational system where every child can see a reflection of their identity, value and potential in their learning environment. By fostering trust, understanding and equity, I believe we can navigate uncertain times together and create a brighter future for all.” – Melissa Perez
Ronnie Chatterji
Chief economist, OpenAI
Business and public policy professor, Duke University
I am divided on whether to say that the first thing you notice about my longtime friend, Aaron “Ronnie” Chatterji, when you meet him is his welcoming smile or his brilliant mind. Either way, if you are with him for more than a moment, both are fantastically obvious.
Because of his broad and expansive work, he cannot be pigeonholed, sometimes making it hard to easily describe him or the heights that he has reached at such a young age. In my attempt, I will lean on something that many Durhamites remember fondly: “Hamilton.” When the acclaimed Broadway musical first came to the Durham Performing Arts Center, thousands of us packed the theater to sing along to the memorable tunes penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda. If one song sums up the life and career of Ronnie, it is “The Room Where It Happens.” Throughout his illustrious career, he has proven to continually be in that room.
Ronnie is a devoted parent, whom you can regularly find picking up his children from school, as well as a tenured and distinguished professor in strategy and public policy at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, but the rooms where he maneuvers go far beyond those. Ronnie served as a senior economist on former President Obama’s Council of Economic Advisers in the early 2000s, then returned to public service a decade later to oversee the historic $52.7 billion CHIPS and Science Act for former President Biden’s White House – the latter has recently brought $1 billion to Durham through grants to Wolfspeed and the SMART USA (Semiconductor Manufacturing and Advanced Research with Twins USA) Institute. In between that, he ran for state treasurer of North Carolina. Most recently, he has been named as OpenAI’s first-ever chief economist, leading research to ensure artificial intelligence’s economic impacts benefit us all. I cannot think of many who have been in more consequential rooms during this first quarter of the 21st century than Ronnie. And I know, for me, that makes me smile. – by Henry C. McKoy Jr., PH.D., former N.C. Central University professor and Biden presidential appointee
Ronnie’s 2024 Highlights
“My proudest moment of 2024 was when it was announced that Durham was selected as the site for a $285 million research and development center for computer chips. I led the implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act, which created this funding opportunity, and it was great to see it come full circle.” – Ronnie Chatterji
A Hope for the Future
“My biggest hope for change in 2025 is that I can overcome the information overload coming via my phone, computer and the news environment and focus on a few key priorities to make our community better.” – Ronnie Chatterji
Jesse Paddock
Lead filmmaker, Legal Defense Fund Oral History Project
Videographer and video production teacher, Durham Academy
One of my favorite field photographs is a candid shot of me, filmmaker Jesse Paddock and former NAACP Legal Defense Fund attorney Conrad Harper during an oral history interview in New York City. The camera captured us laughing together, enjoying a beautiful experience.
Toni Cade Bambara wrote that beauty is care. Jesse cares about people. He cares about history. He cares about fully using his intellectual curiosity, technical knowledge and gifted artistry for storytelling that helps people make sense of their world. Jesse is what I call a “cool” perfectionist: paying attention to the details, making the work look easy, making the interviews look great and making the process fun. I worry about nothing when Jesse is the videographer on a shoot. His attention to high-level production skills combined with his innate ability to engage with narrators allows me to focus and be at my best as an interviewer. It creates a safe environment that opens interviewees to sharing stories that might otherwise go unheard.
I first met Jesse in Wilson, North Carolina, in the home of former U.S. Congressman G.K. Butterfield. The Southern Oral History Program at UNC assigned Jesse as the videographer and me as the oral historian to interview Butterfield for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund Oral History Project. At the time, I was not aware that Jesse was an award-winning filmmaker whose experience ranged from documentary features to major TV productions for MTV, HGTV and NPR. What I did immediately notice was Jesse’s genuine happiness to be where he was. So present. And when I tell you: the lighting and the framing – perfection. He invited me to take a look in the viewfinder, seeking my opinion before the interview started. Jesse asked the congressman about photographs on display as he carefully rearranged furniture, prompting anecdotes from Butterfield and developing a congenial setting for everyone. Jesse became the lead filmmaker for the LDF ongoing project, working with oral historians to collect the stories behind LDF’s 80 years of defending and advancing racial justice and equality. He also curates video excerpts for the project’s website.
We knew Jesse would be the perfect person to produce videos for UNC’s Center for the Study of the American South in 2024, as CSAS celebrated milestone anniversaries for our Southern Oral History Program and Southern Cultures journal. Jesse worked with us to create videos that completely capture our history and our essence, connecting them to stories beyond our academic setting.
I remember Jesse’s excitement when he talked about the possibility of designing and teaching a video production course at Durham Academy. Once the class began, Jesse observed his students’ needs and adjusted the course to bring out their creative best. Those students are learning from the best – not only how to bring technical prowess to their work but also how to approach work with humanity. Jesse influences and nurtures the work of other emerging and established documentarians in his role on the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival selection committee.
As a leader, a practitioner and a teacher, Jesse passes knowledge to the next generation of filmmakers, inspiring care that creates beautiful storytelling. – by Melody Hunter-Pillion, Ph.D. candidate in American Studies, UNC Chapel Hill
Jesse’s 2024 Highlights
“One of the perks of being a videographer is that you get to meet and talk with so many interesting people. This year was no exception, whether it was traveling to Warren County with the Croatan Institute to interview farmers as part of its Soil Wealth project, working with UNC’s Center for the Study of the American South to document the founding of that institution alongside the Southern Oral History Program for its annual symposium, or the many times I was fortunate to observe truly meaningful interactions among Durham Academy teachers and students in the classroom. But the biggest highlight of all was launching the Legal Defense Fund Oral History Project site in October. After two years of traveling and meeting these inspiring, dedicated individuals, it was deeply rewarding to share their stories with the wider public. We’ll be adding more interviews in the coming months, so I hope people keep checking back to watch the clips and read the transcripts as the archive continues to grow. I can’t express how grateful I am to have had the opportunity to be a part of this project.” – Jesse Paddock
A Hope for the Future
“A source of hope for me is watching students make connections between the videos they’re making and what they see in the world. I love it when someone comes in and says, “I was watching this TV show, and everything was shot in shallow focus, just like we were doing last week.” It makes it real for them, and I hope it reinforces the idea that they have agency within this system of images. One thing we talk about a lot is that, even if media can seem like this perfect, polished thing that’s just delivered to you passively, that’s not really the case. It’s made up of choices that somebody somewhere made, and they can make those choices, too. Media literacy is only going to become more critical as a skill for us all to keep sharpened, so I’m heartened to see young people who are fearless, curious and energetic about using video to tell stories that impact their community and their world.” – Jesse Paddock
Durham Next Board
A great place to live is also a great place to visit, and the intersection of those two ideals is where Durham Next lives. A new partnership for advancing Durham as the best place to live, work and visit, the nonprofit is positioned to hit the ground running in 2025, implementing a long-term growth plan and sustainable structure to make large-scale initiatives – like a more contemporary convention center, a new sports complex, a freeway cap over N.C. Hwy. 147 and thriving festival ecosystem – happen. Born from the Destination Master Plan that put forth a 20-year, community-endorsed vision for Durham, Durham Next is managed by Discover Durham. Its president and CEO, Susan Amey, is acting as Durham Next’s executive director until the position is filled, and she provides perspectives on the all-star list of board members assembled to steward and accelerate projects that will better the quality of life for generations of Durhamites to come:
Farad Ali
Co-founder, Ali Heijmen
Board chair, Durham Next
What hasn’t Farad done to help Durham thrive? A trusted leader in finance, public policy and economic development, Farad brings decades of experience navigating the intersection of business and community impact. His deep understanding of equitable economic growth and his passion for empowering local businesses make him an invaluable voice leading the Durham Next board.
Patrick Anderson
General manager, The Streets at Southpoint
Pat knows what it takes to create spaces where people connect, shop and enjoy shared experiences. With years of expertise in managing one of Durham’s most visited destinations and a passion for community safety and well-being, he offers insights into placemaking, retail trends and visitor engagement – key ingredients for a Durham that’s both vibrant and sustainable.
Tucker Bartlett
Executive vice president, Self-Help Credit Union
Board vice chair, Durham Next
Tucker’s expertise lies in creating financial systems that foster opportunity, resilience and lasting community impact. With decades of experience in community finance and economic empowerment, he has played a pivotal role in advancing equitable development across Durham and beyond. His deep knowledge of sustainable lending, affordable housing and small business support ensures Durham Next prioritizes projects that not only stimulate growth but also create opportunities for all residents to thrive. Tucker’s thoughtful approach to balancing financial viability with social responsibility will be instrumental in shaping Durham’s future as a place where prosperity is shared and sustainable.
Bill Bell
President and CEO, UDI Community Development Corp.
Little explanation is needed as to what perspective former Mayor Bill Bell will bring to the board, as few have shaped Durham’s trajectory as profoundly as he. With a legacy rooted in leadership, public service and community development, Mayor Bell brings wisdom and an unmatched historical perspective to Durham Next. His guidance will help the group navigate complex challenges with clarity and with an eye – and a dream realized – for what Durham can be with investment and a vision.
Patrick Byker
Attorney, MorningStar Law Group
Patrick brings a wealth of experience in land use, zoning and real estate law, helping guide transformative projects that shape Durham’s landscape. With decades of expertise navigating complex regulatory frameworks, Patrick has been instrumental in advancing developments that balance growth with community priorities. His deep understanding of legal and policy intricacies ensures Durham Next’s initiatives are built on a foundation of transparency, compliance and strategic foresight.
E’Vonne Coleman
Member, Durham Cultural Advisory Board
A passionate advocate for arts, culture and community inclusion, E’Vonne leads with a deep understanding of how our creative community helps shape Durham’s identity and contributes to the economic impact of tourism. Her extensive experience in cultural leadership and community engagement ensures Durham Next stays connected to the voices and stories that make our city vibrant. She brings a unique ability to bridge cultural and civic initiatives, fostering collaboration between artists, residents and decision-makers. Her perspective will help Durham Next prioritize projects that honor the city’s rich cultural heritage while paving the way for inclusive growth.
Lois Deloatch
Nonprofit advisor and musician board secretary/treasurer, Durham Next
Lois brings a rare blend of artistic talent, advocacy leadership and philanthropic experience to the board. As a celebrated musician and a leader in community development, Lois understands the importance of both cultural expression and economic empowerment. Her work has consistently bridged creativity and social impact, advancing opportunities for underrepresented communities. Lois’s ability to see multiple dimensions of community development ensures projects will honor Durham’s cultural heritage while fostering sustainable, inclusive growth.
Geoff Durham
President and CEO, Durham Chamber of Commerce
It’d be obvious to simply say Geoff knows what drives a thriving economy. With a focus on fostering business growth and workforce development, his leadership ensures the board aligns community projects with economic strategies that deliver meaningful results for residents and businesses alike. His perspective is especially important as the Triangle balances attracting new business while supporting those already established.
Bo Ferguson
City manager, City of Durham
Bo is a highly credentialed leader with a forwardthinking mindset that is fundamental to Durham Next’s ability to deliver on the vision. Bo’s track record in Durham and other communities proves his knack for innovative problem-solving. His work to support the launch of the city’s HEART Program puts Durham on national stages as an example for other municipalities. His role will also provide a direct connection to city leaders, keeping our organization aligned with the needs, priorities and solutions being considered by local government. His skill set and fresh perspective will be crucial to the ongoing success of this board.
Vicky Garcia
President, Latino Community Credit Union
Vicky is a trailblazer in financial inclusion and community empowerment through her leadership of the Latino Community Credit Union. She has dedicated her career to expanding access to financial services, fostering economic resilience and building trust within underserved communities. She has strengthened financial literacy while creating pathways for families to achieve stability and growth. Her expertise and commitment to equity ensure we prioritize projects that address systemic barriers, promote inclusivity and uplift diverse voices.
Claudia Hager
County manager, Durham County Government
Responsible investment is a core tenant of the board’s work. Claudia is an award-winning leader in finance with more than a decade of experience serving Durham County Government. As a member of the board, Claudia’s role will help to maintain alignment among Durham Next’s priorities and the county’s strategic goals. Along with her financial expertise, she approaches her work with deep comprehension of just how important collaboration is when it comes to creating positive impact in the community. Her innate ability to connect with others will be instrumental in Durham Next’s ability to facilitate the partnerships necessary to bring this long-term vision to life.
Joe Millazo II
Executive director, Regional Transportation Aliiance
Setting up communities for success involves understanding the underlying factors needed to get them there, and Joe gets it. His work with the Regional Transportation Alliance highlights the unprecedented growth the Triangle is currently seeing, and he understands that without accessible transportation infrastructure to accommodate this capacity, Durham, along with the surrounding region, has a lot to lose. For Joe, this understanding creates a sense of urgency to get the work done. His tenacity and his ability to advocate fiercely for the needs of the region drive progress, which is exactly what Durham Next needs to create a real impact in the community. To quote Joe, “Let’s get moving.”
Carlos Rubio
General manager, Delta Hotels by Marriott
Liaison, Discover Durham Tourism Development Authority
Among this group, Carlos is an anchor. His roles as a leader in Durham’s hospitality community, as the Tourism Development Authority vice chair and as its liaison to Durham Next mean that he’s able to come to the table with firsthand knowledge of the undeniable economic impact of tourism in our community and a keen understanding of the hospitality workforce as a local leader in the industry. Carlos served on the TDA board that oversaw the creation of and unanimously endorsed the Discover Durham Destination Master Plan.
Bryan Scherich
Director of real estate, Measurement Durham
Durham Next will oversee large, visionary projects that will require it to work with new partners. When it comes to these capital investments, understanding real estate and property management are key components to moving those projects forward and are areas of expertise for Bryan. Beyond technical know-how, though, Bryan brims with creative ideas for cultivating vibrancy in Durham’s historic spaces, and he brings an unwavering pride that can be easily recognized in native Durhamites. His commitment to seeing Durham thrive is personal.
Johnnie Southerland
Deputy chief of staff and associate vice chancellor for strategic planning & assessment, North Carolina Central Univeristy
To successfully plan for the future, Durham needs to be strategic, and that’s exactly what Johnnie specializes in. For more than 20 years, Johnnie has served as a dedicated leader at the illustrious North Carolina Central University, focusing his efforts over the years on corporate fundraising, strategic planning and economic development. He is no stranger to long-range planning, managing large initiatives and working collaboratively to create progress, strongly aligning his experience with the skill sets needed to help Durham Next achieve its mission.
Nicole Thompson
President and CEO, Downtown Durham Inc.
If you know downtown Durham, then you know Nicole. Discover Durham and Downtown Durham Inc., our respective organizations, share a symbiotic relationship where the success of one is tied to the success of the other. Nicole spends countless hours advocating for the needs of small businesses, identifying barriers to economic advancement in Durham, and ideating ways to protect Durham’s vibrant, unique character for visitors and residents alike to experience. She’s a savvy problem-solver who’s always willing to roll up her sleeves and get her hands dirty for the sake of the community’s collective progress. That kind of partnership and dedication is invaluable for this work.
Mike Woodard
Former city council member and state senator
Before Discover Durham published the Destination Master Plan in March 2024, Mike was already laying the groundwork for legislation that put our Tourism Development Authority’s responsibilities and resources on par with others across the state, giving Durham the opportunity to compete on equal footing with other booming destinations. That legislation paved the way for the establishment of Durham Next. His steadfast championing of Durham Next’s mission is only the most recent display of his long-standing devotion to the community’s success. His leadership will certainly be a guiding star as we dig deeper into the work.
Curious about other leaders making an impact in Durham? Learn more about the influencers who were featured in last year’s issue!
