Preservation Durham Staff
Caitlin Avinger, Executive Director
Caitlin is passionate about preserving, sharing, and continuing to learn about Durham's rich history. She brings with her years of experience working at historic sites and parks where she led educational programming and organized community events for the public. She is committed to making Durham's history accessible, approachable, and engaging while preserving its historical sites and resources for generations to come.
Caitlin graduated with a BA in American History and Political Science from Arizona State University and has her master's degree in Museum Studies from the Cooperstown Graduate Program of the State University of New York at Oneonta. She has a decade of experience working in museums as well as at state and Durham city historic sites. She brings this experience and enthusiasm to her work at Preservation Durham.
cavinger@preservationdurham.org
Julia Lasure, Membership & Programs Coordinator
Julia is dedicated to making history an open and accessible resource for everyone. Through her studies, she has understood the power local history has in empowering communities and individuals alike. She is committed to ensuring that Durham's history is communicated and shared throughout the community through the many programs hosted by Preservation Durham.
Julia graduated from Wingate University with a BA in History in 2019 and from North Carolina State University with a master's degree in Public History in 2025. She worked with numerous communities to document and preserve their histories, and brings that experience into her work at Preservation Durham.
jlasure@preservationdurham.org
Julia Meyer, Office Manager
Julia is passionate about contributing to local nonprofits throughout the Triangle. At Veggie Van, Julia developed a life-long appreciation for community-driven efforts, including connecting folks with food resources by setting up mobile farmers markets throughout Durham. This led to being part of the Meals-on-Wheels Orange County, NC team where she organized daily meal deliveries, coordinated volunteers, and met with older adults in their homes. Julia then joined Farmer Foodshare and connected NC farms with fresh produce deliveries to food pantries across NC.
Julia graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a BA in Geography, and Peace, War & Defense. She continues to be incredibly inspired by the volunteers and staff at local nonprofits who impact our community.
