He also continues with his musical roots as a member of Eastern Star Church’s music ministry. “So, that’s what I’m about, is about providing our young folks and entrepreneurs with the tools to help them navigate to be successful so they can have sustainable futures for years to come.”ĭuke also spends time working with 100 Black Men of America Inc., where he serves as Moses Gray Midwest District representative and is the immediate past president and CEO of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis. “So, one of the tag lines that I say to the kids I work with is that, ‘You’re going to be successful, but we can guarantee that we’re going to equip you with the tools to be successful,’” Hill said. Today, Duke is the director of diversity for Indiana University Health network and works to ensure the hospital is partnering with women-, Black- and minority-owned businesses. After graduating from Morehouse College with a degree in business analytics and marketing, he returned to Indiana and started working with the Family Social Services, where he developed a passion for working with youth and promoting diversity. In high school, Duke took on a variety of leadership roles for various organizations as well as participating in competitions with Lawrence Central’s show choir, Central Sound. So, after graduating from Lawrence Central in 1986, he attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., where he got his first taste of independence after being reared in Indianapolis.

When he was in high school, James Duke wanted to be a doctor, then an engineer. homecoming game.īelow is a look into each of these alumni and what they have been doing since graduation. 9, and Duke will be honored at Lawrence North’s Sept. Spencer was honored at the Lawrence Central homecoming game Sept. “These individuals prioritized their academics and have since shined in their fields,” Lawrence North High School produces young people who are very well educated and are able to lead others with class and dignity,” Lawrence North Principal Brett Crousore said. “These recipients represent all that is good in Lawrence Township.

This year’s class includes Lawrence North High School graduates Chris Hill, class of 2001, and Ashley Spencer, class of 2011, and 1986 Lawrence Central High School graduate James Duke. Throughout the month of September, the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township is honoring its distinguished alum.

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