A legacy of leadership and service will continue to shape future generations at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) thanks to a $100,000 gift from donor Robert Powell, establishing the Reverend Dr. William C. Turner Jr. Endowed Scholarship Fund. This endowment honors Reverend Dr. William C. Turner Jr.’s lifelong commitment to civic engagement and leadership in the Durham community. 

Reverend Turner, one of three recipients of the 2024 Duke University Medal for Distinguished Meritorious Service, is the pastor of Mount Level Missionary Baptist Church and professor emeritus of the practice of preaching and homiletics at Duke University. Over his distinguished career, he has held various academic and administrative roles, including assistant provost, dean of Black affairs, acting director of the African and African American Studies Department and director of the Office of Black Church Affairs. A triple Duke graduate and one of the first two Black student-athletes on the university’s football team, Reverend Turner is a respected preacher, lecturer and community leader whose influence has shaped generations of students, clergy and faith communities.  

Reverend Turner has a deep connection to NCCU, where several members of his family are graduates. As a participant in the Alumni Shadowing Program when NCCU was North Carolina College, he attended lectures and developed a lasting friendship with then Eugene EAVES, with whom he sang in the choir at St. Joseph AME Church. 

"A helping hand made my education possible, and it’s our duty to provide the same for future generations. This scholarship ensures that students in Durham and beyond have the opportunity to achieve their dreams and give back in return," said Reverend Turner. 

The endowed fund will provide scholarships to NCCU students with demonstrated financial need. Recipients must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, with preference given to individuals connected to the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools, either as former students or teachers. Scholarships are renewable for up to four years for recipients who meet the academic requirements. 

“We are honored to preserve Reverend Dr. William C. Turner, Jr.’s legacy through this scholarship, expanding opportunities for our students,” said NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon. 

The endowment will exist in perpetuity, with annual earnings funding scholarship awards in accordance with NCCU Foundation’s endowment spending policy. The scholarship reaffirms NCCU’s commitment to expanding access to higher education, while preserving the legacy of one of Durham’s most respected leaders.