John Burness, Chair of the Durham Technical Community College Board of Trustees, died on Monday, December 19, at the age of 77.

President J.B. Buxton issued the following statement: 

“John Burness was a big personality with big ambitions for Durham Tech. He believed deeply in the College’s ability to make a difference for the residents of Durham and Orange counties. His leadership at both Duke University and Durham Tech reflected his commitment to leveraging the power of institutions to improve people’s lives and create a more beloved community.