Elizabeth H. Locke
- Executive Director, 1996–1996
- President, 1997–2004
Dr. Locke served as the Endowment’s first and only woman chief executive. She came to the role following a career focused on education and communications. Before joining the Endowment in 1982, she taught English at Duke University and served as Director of Publications for Bethlehem Steel Corporation. She served on the boards of Johnson C. Smith University, WTVI-TV, the Southeastern Council of Foundations and on the national Council on Foundations Communications Committee. Dr. Locke was a founding board member of NPower, a nonprofit consultancy in Charlotte.
Major Endowment Milestones:
- Duke-Durham Partnership connects Duke University with surrounding neighborhoods
- Created new communications standards and practices for the Endowment
- Launched the Endowment’s internship program
- Supported the Northwest Crescent Center, connecting Furman University and other partners to provide education and health services in nearby communities