From staff reports

DURHAM -- N.C. Central University will host its Centennial Birthday Bash from 3 to 6 p.m. today beginning at Fayetteville Street and moving to Brant Street Plaza, near the intersection of and Brant and Fayetteville streets.

Speakers will include N.C. Gov. Beverly Perdue and NCCU Chancellor Charlie Nelms.

The event will include dedications of the Centennial Garden, the Centennial Chapel, and the unveiling of commemorative plaques for Hillside High School and the Shepard House. The U.S. Postal Service will unveil a NCCU Centennial Cancellation Stamp. Free birthday cake will also be provided.

The event kicks off with the ringing of the NCCU bell by a descendant of NCCU founder James E. Shepard.

Free parking will be available at NCCU lots on Lawson Street and Nelson Street and with shuttle service from St. Titus and St. Joseph's church lots.

For more information, call 530-6295.