Accurate, Inclusive, Compelling!

The Durham Voice aims to empower the DIVERSE VOICES of Durham, NC, by providing a platform for community storytelling and fostering local engagement and involvement

Through ACCURATE, INCLUSIVE, and COMPELLING journalism, our mission statement is to reflect the unique character of our community, bridge divides, and inspire positive change.

Carl W. Kenney II, the editor-in-chief of The VOICE

The VOICE Leader

The VOICE is lead by Carl W. Kenney II, assistant professor at Hussman School of Journalism and Media in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He comes to the VOICE after decades of writing about Durham with the Durham Herald-Sun, News & Observer, IndyWeek, Durham Magazine and Rev-elution.

The future of journalism is in the hands of a group of creative students. Carl Kenney presents the students enrolled in Community Journalism and News Editing at the Hussman School of Journalism and Media as the editors of Durham Voice.

According to Kenney, “we are shifting around how we define what it means to be a community. Our role as journalists is in defining who we are. Not only who we are, but who we are becoming. We’re becoming something different.” Kenney envisions The VOICE as an opportunity for students to gain insight into the evolving identity of the community while also discovering more about themselves in the process.

History of the VOICE

2008

Jock Lauterer founded the student-produced publication to cover news in Northeast Central Durham, which at the time was the most resource-disparate area in the city. He envisioned a form of community journalism that went beyond simply reporting bad news within the 95-block region. The VOICE aimed to offer a deeper look into the lives and activities of residents, moving beyond the names and places found in crime logs. Originally named the Northeast Central Durham Community VOICE, it was a collaborative effort between the journalism programs at UNC-Chapel Hill and N.C. Central University, along with Durham’s civic and church leaders, volunteers, and residents. Lauterer’s goal was to create a true community voice for the Northeast Central Durham neighborhood.

2020

For more than 10 years, students in the Community Journalism class at UNC-CH reported and wrote stories, which were then edited by students from the News Editing class. Over its history, The VOICE underwent several formats and iterations before ceasing publication in early 2020 due to the newsroom’s shutdown during COVID-19 and the retirement of Jock Lauterer. Lauterer has long believed that strong community journalism strengthens communities by fostering a deep sense of place.

2021

The VOICE has transformed significantly since Carl W. Kenney II took over after founder Jock Lauterer’s retirement in 2020. Initially focused on Northeast Central Durham, The VOICE now covers broader local issues, including key city elections. Kenney sees it as a platform for students to connect with the community, exploring topics like development, politics, and public opinion. Under his leadership, students are learning how local journalism shapes discussions about power and policy, particularly on housing and political influence. Kenney’s dedication to fostering dialogue and diverse perspectives continues to guide The VOICE as it evolves with Durham.

2023

During late 2023, the vision for rebranding The Durham Voice began to take shape. Under the guidance of Associate Professor Laura Ruel, students developed a comprehensive plan for the redesign based on semester-long research into Durham and the local media landscape. Teaching Assistant Professor Scott Geier played a key role by providing exceptional technical support, helping the team navigate significant challenges as they prepared for the publication’s new direction.

2024

The Durham Voice underwent a major transformation with a complete rebuild of its website, launching on a brand-new platform designed to better serve both the community and student journalists. This rebranding not only refreshed the look and functionality of the publication but also expanded its reach and capabilities. The new platform offers an enhanced user experience, making it easier for readers to engage with stories and for students to showcase their work. With this upgrade, The VOICE is now positioned to present Durham’s diverse stories in a more dynamic and accessible way.

Meet our awesome staff

Revitalization of The VOICE

Scott Geier

Scott Geier is an Assistant Professor of Digital Storytelling and Journalism at UNC-Chapel Hill, with extensive experience as a multimedia producer and content creator. He specializes in video production, editing, storytelling, and coding. In addition to his academic role, he also serves as the Chief Development Manager for The Durham Voice, where he contributes to fostering local community engagement through impactful media.

Yubin Hu

Yubin Hu is the Web Developer of The Durham Voice. He is a senior at UNC-Chapel Hill, majoring in Media & Journalism and with a double major in Mathematics, bringing a unique combination of creative storytelling and analytical precision to his work. His expertise spans web design, data analytics, and digital marketing. Yubin values the power of technology in amplifying voices and stories that matter. Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Yubin enjoys exploring the cultural impact of movies and films.

Stella Griffin

Stella Griffin is the Communications Director for The Durham Voice, where she oversees social media strategy and drives community engagement efforts. A senior at UNC Chapel Hill, majoring in Media and Journalism with a minor in Philosophy, Stella is dedicated to the power of storytelling and fostering impactful dialogue within her community. Originally from Locust in Stanly County, NC, she has a strong appreciation for local journalism and its essential role in bringing people together.