The Museum of Durham History is thrilled to announce the hiring of Treat Harvey as its new full-time Director of Development. Treat (she/her), who brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to Durham’s cultural and nonprofit community, will lead the Museum’s fundraising efforts to support its mission of exploring, sharing, and preserving the stories of Durham’s diverse history.

With over 25 years in fundraising for arts and education nonprofits, Treat has been instrumental in securing resources and raising awareness for key organizations in Durham and beyond. Locally, she has contributed to the Durham Arts Council, Duke University, Emily K Center, Carolina Theatre of Durham, Triangle Community Foundation, and Student U. Her impressive background also includes roles with the International Youth Foundation (Baltimore, MD) and Smith College (Northampton, MA). Before moving to Durham in 1995, Treat worked in sales and marketing for a French hotel company in New York, bringing a unique, multicultural perspective to her work.

Treat’s impact on the Durham community extends beyond her professional achievements. A dedicated community member, she is an active member of the Rotary Club of Durham and St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, where she co-chairs the parish’s annual stewardship campaign. Over the years, Treat has held board roles with Mallarmé Chamber Players and Durham Crisis Response Center, served on Durham’s Cultural Advisory Board, and has been involved in numerous other community organizations, including the Smith College Club of the Triangle and Duke University’s Samuel DuBois Cook Society.

Known for her generosity of spirit, Treat has provided pro bono fundraising guidance to various local nonprofits, including the Pauli Murray Project, Preservation Durham, LEAP (Latino Educational Achievement Partnership), the LGBTQ Center of Durham, and Book Harvest. Her dedication to supporting these causes speaks to her commitment to strengthening Durham’s cultural landscape and championing community-driven initiatives.

Treat is a graduate of Smith College, where she earned a degree in French Language & Literature. She later completed Duke University’s Certificate in Non-Profit Management and participated in Leadership Durham in 2003. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, attending dance and musical performances, visiting art galleries and local festivals, walking in nature, spending time with her seven godchildren, and learning to garden and cook.

The Museum of Durham History is honored to welcome Treat as a vital member of its team. Her extensive experience and passion for the Durham community will undoubtedly help the Museum expand its programs, engage new supporters, and continue its mission of fostering curiosity and understanding about Durham’s rich and diverse history.