The W.G. Pearson Center

05/16/2025

Need Classroom Space During the Day?
We have 9-10 fully equipped classrooms available weekdays from 8AM–2PM, perfect for:
✅ Dual enrollment programs
✅ School overflow
✅ Workforce development classes
✅ Alternative learning models
Access to gym, auditorium, cafeteria & more!
Minutes from NC Central
DM us or schedule a tour by contacting [email protected]

04/11/2025

Today, we celebrate the incredible legacy of William Gaston Pearson, a man whose unwavering commitment to education and opportunity continues to inspire us all. Born on April 11, 1858, as a slave on a Durham County plantation, Pearson spent his life fighting for a future where Black students had access to the rigorous and enriching education they deserved. His belief in the transformative power of learning and his dedication to creating opportunities for those around him remain at the heart of everything we do at the WG Pearson Center.

The W.G. Pearson Center, named in his honor, stands as a living testament to his vision. Originally built in 1928 as a segregated school, it was revitalized in 2017 and now serves as a beacon of hope and progress in Durham’s vibrant Black community. This space continues to foster education, innovation, and collaboration—just as Pearson intended.

Nearly 100 years after its construction, walking into The W.G. Pearson Center still feels sacred. It’s a place where past students’ voices echo and where the potential of future generations continues to grow. Together with partners, organizations, and community members, we work to dismantle systemic barriers and build a future where every student can thrive.

Join us in honoring Pearson's legacy by contributing to the change happening here at The W.G. Pearson Center. Let’s continue his work, shaping a Durham where education is a powerful tool for transformation and success. Use the link in our bio to learn more about Pearson’s legacy's impact and how you can be a part of it.

04/08/2025

We’re so excited that Rhoda Generation Mentor is hosting its 4th annual vendor fair this Saturday, April 12th, right here at the WG Pearson Center! This is more than just a vendor fair; it’s a chance to connect with our incredible Durham community and celebrate local businesses! Whether you're looking to discover new brands, support small businesses, or network with amazing entrepreneurs and creatives, you won’t want to miss this event.

Why you need to be there:
🔹Meet over 50 vendors, including Student U and other incredible local businesses
🔹 Network with fellow entrepreneurs & creatives
🔹 Support incredible mentees who will be setting up shop too!
🔹 Enjoy music, a DJ, a photo booth, and more!

We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate the vibrant, growing community we’re all a part of! Let’s make this a day to remember!

02/18/2025

We’re thrilled to welcome Liana Pinner as our new Office & Events Coordinator! Liana will serve as the face of event coordination at the W.G. Pearson Center, working closely with internal and external partners to ensure seamless events. With her passion for our community's mission, strong attention to detail, and outgoing personality, Liana plays a vital role in managing our event rentals, coordinating building tours, and overseeing day-to-day logistics. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the impact she will continue to make. Big Ups to Liana!

To learn more about renting any of the spaces that the The W.G. Pearson Center has to offer, please reach out to Liana at [email protected]

10/14/2024

Today, we pause to recognize the strength, and vibrant cultures of Indigenous people in America. Let’s reflect on the native lands we live on and the history of how they were taken. Together, we can amplify Indigenous voices, respect their stories, and celebrate their contributions within our schools and communities.

Interested in learning more? Explore these books and resources centering Indigenous storytellers and history:

First Nations Book List - https://hubs.la/Q02TjZ5H0
Social Justice Books: American Indians - https://hubs.la/Q02TjZ5J0
Indigenous Reads Rising - https://hubs.la/Q02Tk86T0
NC DPI American Indian Education Resources - https://hubs.la/Q02TjSdl0

08/21/2024

Thank you, Pamela, for being such an integral part of Student U! On this, your third anniversary, we want to celebrate you and give you a heartfelt Big Ups for being one of the bright, smiling faces that fills our community with such joy and energy.

As our Rentals Manager at the W.G. Pearson Center, Pamela is more than just a point of contact; she is the backbone that keeps us going, ensuring that everything runs smoothly—from overseeing building management and events to welcoming new staff and visitors with a warm and inviting smile.

Pamela, everyone who walks through our doors feels your dedication to creating a positive and welcoming environment. You have a special way of ensuring every student, family, and supporter feels seen, valued, and supported. Your tireless efforts to build connections and foster relationships within our community truly make a difference. Pamela, you are a source of optimism, hope, and ambition for all of us, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our journey. Here's to many more years of your inspiring presence at Student U!

05/10/2024

Join Student U as our Operations Coordinator and play a vital role in building a just and equitable Durham! As the Operations Coordinator, you'll maintain an organized and welcoming front desk at The WG Pearson Center and Student U’s Summer Academy. Your responsibilities include managing reception areas, handling office equipment, greeting visitors, and supporting student recruitment efforts. We're seeking a motivated individual with excellent organizational and communication skills, computer literacy, and bilingual proficiency in Spanish/English.

This part-time role offers an hourly rate of $18 with partial benefits included and a commitment of 30 hours per week. If you're passionate about making a difference and ready to join our team, apply by May 31, 2024! https://hubs.la/Q02wGSV80

04/30/2024

Join we are this Saturday at The W.G. Pearson from 1-3 pm!

Join us for FREE Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, Music, a Bounce house, Book Giveaways, Local Vendors, and MORE at Ice Cream and Organizing on May 4th at The W.G. Pearson Center from 1-3 pm. Register here! https://bit.ly/ICO-2024

04/29/2024

11/07/2023

The WG Pearson Center is the ideal venue for community events, offering a welcoming and spacious environment that can accommodate gatherings of all sizes.

Book Now & Learn More: https://hubs.la/Q027KD2T0
Location: 600 E. Umstead St., Durham, NC 27707
Contact: 919-706-1303 | [email protected]

11/03/2023

Looking for a venue that goes beyond the ordinary? The W.G. Pearson Center, owned and managed by Student U, a dedicated Durham nonprofit, is your gateway to inspiring growth, fostering connections, and facilitating transformative experiences.

Nestled in the Hayti neighborhood, embraced by Durham's Black community, we're all about inspiring growth, fostering connections, and facilitating transformative experiences. Our event spaces are more than venues; they're where innovation thrives, partnerships flourish, and progress is celebrated. As the heartbeat of the community, we also work to connect and support organizations like BYP 100, Durham Public Schools Foundation, Village of Wisdom, and more. Join us to be part of something truly meaningful.

Ready to make your event unforgettable? Elevate your event to new heights with The W.G. Pearson Center and be a part of our commitment to spreading positive influence in Durham! Let's turn your vision into reality!