Duke University Secures $90.5 Million Grant to Promote Pluralism, Free Inquiry, and Belonging, While Sion James Recognized for Community Service and Achievements with $5 Million Allstate NACDA Good Works Team Honor

In a groundbreaking development for both Duke University and the higher education sector, the university has been awarded a transformative $90.5 million grant aimed at fostering pluralism, free inquiry, and belonging across its campus community. The grant, which is one of the largest in Duke’s history, will empower the institution to build on its longstanding commitment to academic excellence while addressing some of the most pressing issues of modern society. The funding will be used to support a wide array of initiatives designed to promote diversity, inclusivity, and the free exchange of ideas, ensuring that students from all backgrounds feel not only welcome but empowered to thrive within the university’s esteemed academic environment.

The announcement comes at a time when many universities are increasingly under scrutiny to create campuses that reflect the ideals of pluralism and inclusivity. With this grant, Duke is positioning itself as a leader in this endeavor, reinforcing its dedication to not just academic achievement but also the cultivation of a campus climate that values every voice and perspective.

The $90.5 million grant will be allocated across several key initiatives designed to make a meaningful and lasting impact. First and foremost, a portion of the funds will be used to enhance existing diversity and inclusion programs that support underrepresented students and provide them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. The grant will also support the establishment of new educational and outreach programs aimed at promoting free inquiry and critical thinking, helping students navigate complex social, political, and cultural issues while fostering an environment where open dialogue is encouraged.

At the core of this initiative is a commitment to creating a sense of belonging for all students. Duke University President, Vincent E. Price, expressed his excitement and optimism about the impact of the grant, emphasizing that it will allow the university to continue its mission of advancing knowledge, promoting intellectual exchange, and creating a campus where students from all walks of life feel valued.

“We are deeply grateful for this generous gift, which will allow Duke University to continue its efforts to create a campus environment where everyone feels they belong,” said President Price in a statement. “In today’s world, where divisiveness and polarization can often feel overwhelming, it is more important than ever that we provide students with opportunities to engage with ideas and people who may be different from themselves. This grant will help ensure that our community remains a place where all individuals, regardless of their background, are heard, respected, and supported.”

The funds will also be used to increase resources for mental health and wellness programs, recognizing that fostering a sense of belonging is integral to the overall well-being of students. These efforts will help to ensure that all students, particularly those from marginalized groups, have access to the support they need to navigate the challenges of higher education. Additionally, Duke plans to expand its campus programming to include more dialogues, lectures, and workshops that explore issues of identity, culture, and community, allowing students to deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

As part of the grant, Duke will also be partnering with a number of organizations and institutions to create collaborative programs and research opportunities that focus on the importance of pluralism and the exchange of ideas. This will involve both faculty and students working together to develop innovative solutions to societal issues and creating opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

With this major grant, Duke University aims to set a new standard for how institutions of higher learning can address issues of pluralism, free inquiry, and belonging, ensuring that its students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives needed to become leaders in an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.

Sion James Recognized with $5 Million Allstate NACDA Good Works Team Honor for Community Service and Achievements

In another exciting development, Duke University student-athlete Sion James has been named one of the 22 members of the prestigious 2025 Allstate NACDA Good Works Team, receiving a $5 million honor for his exceptional contributions to community service and his commitment to making a difference both on and off the field. The Allstate NACDA Good Works Team recognizes college athletes who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to serve their communities and make a positive impact in the world.

James, a standout on Duke’s basketball team, is being recognized for his tireless efforts in promoting social justice, advocating for mental health awareness, and supporting various local initiatives that aim to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. His recognition with the Allstate NACDA Good Works Team underscores the powerful role that athletes can play in inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of unity within their communities.

James, who has been a leader both on the court and in his community, is known for his unwavering commitment to volunteer work and his dedication to causes that he cares deeply about. Over the years, he has worked with several organizations focused on providing educational opportunities for underprivileged youth, supporting mental health initiatives, and advocating for social justice reform. He has also taken a leadership role in organizing community outreach programs aimed at bridging gaps between Duke University students and the surrounding Durham community.

“I’m truly humbled and honored to be recognized with this incredible award,” James said in a statement following the announcement. “I’ve always believed in the power of community and the importance of using my platform to make a difference. This recognition is not just for me, but for everyone who has supported me along the way, and for all the people working tirelessly to make their communities better.”

James’s impact on the Duke and Durham communities has been profound. He has been a consistent presence at local schools, leading basketball clinics for young athletes and mentoring high school students. His dedication to mental health awareness has also been a key part of his advocacy, as he has worked to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and create open channels for discussion among student-athletes.

“I’ve seen firsthand how sports can bring people together, but I’ve also seen how it can be a platform for greater conversations and greater change,” James continued. “Whether it’s talking about mental health or standing up for social justice, it’s important to use whatever influence you have to make a positive impact.”

Sion James’s recognition is also a testament to the importance of integrating service and leadership into the lives of student-athletes. His achievement reflects the broader goals of Duke University’s athletic department, which has long championed the idea that student-athletes should not only excel in their respective sports but also strive to make meaningful contributions to society.

The Allstate NACDA Good Works Team honor comes with a $5 million financial award, which will be distributed to various causes and initiatives that James supports. He has already announced that a portion of the funds will be donated to local organizations focused on youth education, mental health services, and providing resources for underrepresented communities. This gesture underscores James’s commitment to giving back and making a long-term impact on the issues that matter most to him.

As he continues to build his legacy both as a student-athlete and as a community leader, James’s work serves as an inspiration to others, showing that the pursuit of excellence in athletics can go hand in hand with making a meaningful difference in the world.

A Vision for the Future: Pluralism and Service at the Core of Duke University’s Mission

Duke University’s recent accomplishments—securing the $90.5 million grant to promote pluralism and belonging, and recognizing student-athlete Sion James for his outstanding community service—reflect a broader commitment to social responsibility, inclusivity, and leadership. These efforts highlight Duke’s vision for the future: a future in which students are not only empowered to excel academically but are also inspired to contribute to their communities in ways that foster unity, understanding, and progress.

Duke’s continued investment in both academic excellence and community service offers a blueprint for how universities can play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive and just society. Whether through groundbreaking initiatives like the pluralism grant or through the individual efforts of students like Sion James, Duke is making a clear statement: education is not just about learning facts, but about learning how to make a difference.