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In the founding indenture of Duke University, James B. Duke wrote, “I advise that the courses at this institution be arranged, first, with special reference to the training of preachers, teachers, lawyers, and physicians, because these are most in the public eye, and by precept and example can do most to uplift mankind.” 

One hundred years since its founding in 1926, Duke Divinity School continues to train preachers, scholars, and leaders to serve the church, the academy, and the world. In 2026-2027, Duke Divinity School is commemorating one hundred years as a theological school of Duke University and preparing for our next century in witness to the triune God.

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Edgardo Colón-Emeric headshot

"Duke Divinity school was one of the first professional schools of the great institution now called Duke University. It is a great honor to commemorate the school's past and dream about our future."

Centennial Events

Join us to mark 100 years of Duke Divinity School.
Ellen Davis speaks at podium
Mon, Oct 12, 2026 | 9am - Tue, Oct 13, 2026 | 3:30pm

The annual Convocation & Pastors’ School is an intensive multi-day conference that offers lectures, worship, alumni gatherings, and seminars for Christian leaders of all traditions.

Blackburns' Chapel United Methodist Church (UMC)
Sun, Jan 31 - Sun, Mar 14, 2027

Duke Divinity School will be hosting a series of events across North Carolina in celebration of the school's Centennial and strong partnership with the United Methodist Church in North Carolina. Registration is recommended but not required. Please invite anyone who may be interested in learning more about Duke Divinity School or discerning a call to ministry.

two women facing each other praying
Thu, Apr 8 - Fri, Apr 9, 2027

Join the Office of Alumni Engagement for Alumni Day 2027 as part of Duke Divinity School's Centennial celebration. Together, we will honor 100 years of faithful ministry, scholarship, and service while reconnecting with classmates, faculty, and friends.

Learn about our buildings and new artwork

Centennial Art & Architecture Tour

In commemoration of one hundred years of Duke Divinity, this tour explores the history of the school's buildings and architecture and highlights new art that cast a vision for a second century shaped by a culture of call at Duke, in Durham, and beyond.

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Centennial Preaching Series

Duke Divinity School will host the Centennial Preaching Series, "Our Calling to Fulfill," throughout the 2026-2027 academic year in celebration of the Divinity School's Centennial.

communion servers serve congregants during Goodson Chapel worship

Centennial News

Find the latest news and features related to Duke Divinity School's centennial.
Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Duke Divinity School welcomed 251 new students at Opening Convocation in the start of its centennial year.

Monday, August 17, 2026

The self-guided multimedia tour of the school’s architecture and artwork includes thirteen stops on new artwork and the history of the school’s buildings narrated by faculty and staff from a variety of disciplines and departments.

Thursday, August 13, 2026

The 6-foot replica of Timothy Schmalz’s sculpture will serve as a "visual prayer" and an image of hope, ministry, and care for the world.

Bible with the geneology of Christ

The Saint John's Bible at Duke University

Art throughout the Ages

The first handwritten Bible commissioned by a Benedictine Abbey in more than 500 years, The Saint John's Bible consists of seven hand-illuminated volumes created by Donald Jackson and a team of calligraphers, visual artists, monks, and scholars. Duke University's Heritage Edition is conserved at Duke Divinity School, and the volumes will be used at several events throughout the year of commemorations.