Two years in the making, the hour-long film tells the story of Duke University, from its beginnings as a one-room schoolhouse in Randolph County to an internationally known research university.

Images, documents and film and audio clips gleaned from Duke’s archives – many of which have not been seen before -- recount the university’s evolution. The film features interviews with all three of Duke’s living presidents, alumni, current and former faculty and community leaders.

“While there is no way to include every significant moment or person in Duke’s history, the goal was to tell a compelling and authentic story,” says Jill Boy, executive director of the Centennial Celebration.

The movie premiered on Dec. 5 at the Nasher Museum. Duke alumni will have the opportunity to see the documentary at regional viewing parties in early 2025. Locations and more information will be available in the coming weeks.

Watch a trailer for the documentary below.