With a Black feminist approach, one that highlights often-overlooked voices, Dr. Tracie Canada (CulAnth) exposes how race, gender, kinship, and care shape the lives of the young athletes who shoulder America's favorite game. In Tackling the Everyday (UC Press), Dr. Canada shows how college football particularly harms the young Black men who are overrepresented on gridirons across the country. Although coaches and universities constantly invoke the misleading "football family" narrative, this book describes… read more about Dr. Tracie Canada Publishes New Book on Black College Football Players »
Duke University honored the service of two long-time custodians by renaming the east campus union. George Wall, a formerly enslaved person, worked as a janitor Duke when it was still Trinity College, and his son George-Frank Wall, the oldest of 14 children, also worked as a custodian at Duke for more than 50 years. The Durham neighborhood Walltown is named in honor of George Wall, who purchased one of the first plots of land next to Duke's east campus in 1899. Read more here. read more about Wall family honored by re-naming East Union to “George and George-Frank Wall Center for Student Life” »
Meet many Black Faculty at Duke that have been highlighted as Centennial Trailblazers, who are leading us into the next century. These Trailblazers boast accomplishments such as: reigniting the long dormant national conversation on reparations, Presidential Early Career Awardees, creating a more equitable STEM education system, expanding the concept of diversity relevant to everyone, and significantly advancing the undergraduate experience at Duke. Learn more about their impact in Duke’s history here:Dr. Gary… read more about Duke Centennial: Black Faculty Trailblazers »
Dr. Jacquelyn McMillian-Bohler (SoN) has been selected for year-long Ivy+ Provost Leadership Fellowships to build skills in academic leadership. She will take part in the Institute on Inquiry, Equity and Leadership in the Academic Department, organized by the Ivy+ Faculty Advancement Network. Drs. Jennifer Nash (GS&F) and Jay Pearson (Sanford), 2023 Ivy+ Peers fellows, also offer their perspectives on the program and its… read more about Dr. McMillian-Bohler Embarks on a Leadership Journey With Ivy+ Peers »
In an article exploring disparities of diagnosis for pregnant Black women, Dr. Keisha Bentley-Edwards, Associate Director of Research for the Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity, makes a compelling case that past atrocities in medical research involving Black people continue to negatively affect the current population and the current beliefs among the medical establishment. Read the full article here. read more about Dr. Bentley-Edwards discusses the impact of “Racialized myths” on Black Women’s health »
After being seriously injured as a student activist, now Assistant Professor Dr. Eric Mvukiyehe (PoliSci), had to flee Mobutu’s regime and civil war in Congo and seek protection on a United Nations Camp. At Duke since 2021, his research focus on sub-state order and violence, spanning four main branches: peacekeeping interventions, public goods provisions, gender roles in the labor market and politics, and employment insecurity. Learn more about his journey here: read more about Flowers Beyond War: Meet Dr. Eric Mvukiyehe »
Dr. Eduardo Bonilla-Silva, James B. Duke Distinguished Professor of Sociology, has been awarded a Pitt Professorship of American History and Institutions at Cambridge University, England, for the 2024-2025 academic year. His book, “Racism Without Racists: Color-Blind Racism and the Persistence of Racial Inequality in America,” has redefined the study of contemporary racism in America by presenting racism as a collective and structural phenomenon. Bonilla-Silva’s appointment starts along with Cambridge’s… read more about Dr. Bonilla-Silva Awarded Pitts Professorship of American History and Institutions at Cambridge University »
On this Duke Law podcast, Prof James Coleman (Law) speaks on the arrest, conviction, and release of Quincy Amerson, who was wrongfully imprisoned for 23 years. Prof. Coleman is Quincy's lead attorney from the wrongful convictions clinic. Listen here read more about Professor James Coleman secures another victory in wrongful conviction case »
In this article for the Washington Post, Dr. Mark Anthony Neal (AAAS) discussed Snoop Dogg's surprising evolution from a controversial figure in the 1990s to a beloved mainstream personality. Dr. Neal highlighted Snoop's ability to maintain credibility as an artist while revealing a softer, more universal side, he further said Snoop is a “lifestyle guru" and "Uncle Stoner," uniquely capturing mainstream appeal. Read more. read more about Dr. Mark Anthony Neal on Snoop Dogg Becoming the USA Olympic Hype Man »
From a soccer star to a global health researcher, Dr. Charles Muiruri (SoM) is on a mission to revolutionize care for those juggling multiple chronic health conditions. As a Duke University School of Medicine faculty member with dual roles in global health and population health, he has published over 50 research articles and secured NIH funding, focusing on patient-centered care for chronic conditions. Read more about his work and how he became a key figure in advancing global health and chronic disease… read more about Meet the Faculty: How Soccer Helps Dr. Charles Muiruri Build Bridges in Global Health »
Prof. Iyun Harrison (Dance) was one of four North Carolina-based artists commissioned by the American Dance Festival to present world-premiere pieces in this year’s “Made in NC” ADF Debuts In this interview with XYZ, Prof. Harrison talks about his new choreographic piece, “Dance the Olympiad (2024), his training and approaches since Juilliard, and his innovative endeavors to bring different perspectives to the classroom that create inclusive pedagogies in Ballet. Click here to read more. read more about Prof. Iyun Harrison commissioned to present a world-premiere piece ) at the American Dance Festival »
In this episode of ‘Voices in Equity” from The Samuel Dubois Cook Center on Social Equity, which addresses the racial wealth gap and its impact on black entrepreneurship, Dr. Sandy Darity (Sanford) contributed insights on the systemic barriers that hinder Black-owned businesses, such as limited access to capital and networks. Listen below. read more about Dr. Sandy Darity addresses racial wealth gap among black entrepreneurs »
Dr. Erica Washington (SoM) has made significant progress in the fight against fungal infections. By studying the trehalose biosynthesis pathway, a crucial process for fungal survival, she has identified a potential new target for antifungal drugs. Her research has uncovered the detailed structure of the Tps1 enzyme, which produces sugar trehalose. This breakthrough opens the door for the development of new antifungal medications that could potentially prevent and treat serious fungal infections. Read more… read more about Dr. Erica Washington’s research advances new solutions for fighting fungal Infections »
Maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Sarahn Wheeler (SoM) has been awarded a $3.16 million R01 grant from the NIH entitled “PROMOTE and TEACH Equity”. "We will test the efficacy of an intervention designed to improve maternal and infant health by empowering clinicians with skills to enhance patients’ access to continued gainful employment and accommodation to ensure a safe working environment during pregnancy," noted Dr. Wheeler. Read more about the project here. read more about Dr. Sarahn Wheeler Awarded a $3M Grant to Study Interventions to Improve Maternal &, Infant Health »
Drs. Shaundra Daily (Pratt) and Nicki Washington (Comp Sci) have been awarded the Karl V. Karlstrom Outstanding Educator Award from the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) for their work in making computing education more equitable. They have created programs focusing on race, gender, and class in computing, aiming to address underrepresentation and negative societal impacts. Read about their work and the award here. read more about Drs. Washington and Daily Receive Outstanding Educator Award »
In her latest book, “Womanist Bioethics: Social Justice, Spirituality, and Black Women's Health”, Dr. Wylin Wilson (Divinity) offers a bold approach to address the failings of bioethics concerning Black women. The book critiques mainstream bioethics for its white, male-dominated perspective, arguing that it inadequately engages with issues affecting vulnerable populations, particularly Black women. Dr. Wilson developed the first womanist form of bioethics, to center Black women's… read more about Womanist Bioethics Social Justice, Spirituality, and Black Women's Health by Dr. Wylin D. Wilson »
Dr. Jennifer Nash (Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies) explores personal loss in her new book, "How We Write Now: Living with Black Feminist Theory." The book centers on Dr. Nash's experience of losing her mother to Alzheimer's and how this loss intersects with Black feminist theory. Prof. Nash blends personal and academic writing to examine how Black feminism addresses loss, making theory accessible and deeply personal. Read more and get a copy of the book here.https://www.… read more about Dr. Jennifer Nash's New Perspective on Loss and Black Feminist Thought »
Director of Polis; the Center for Politics in the Sandford School of Public Policy, and Associate Professor of History and Political Science, Dr. Deondra Rose, spoke with Duke Magazine on what is happening in the most pressing political issues of our time. Their conversation touches on the student’s current anxiety, frustration, and polarization levels, while also holding out hope for democracy as the students grapple with the tough questions and find answers. Read the full conversation here and learn more… read more about Meet the Faculty: Dr. Deondra Rose is showing up for Democracy on the 2024 political season. »
Dr.Onyekwere E. Akwari, (SoM) the first African American surgeon at Duke University Hospital in 1978, played a transformative role in desegregating the institution and advocating for students from underrepresented groups and women in medicine. He was a pioneering researcher in gastrointestinal hormones and co-founded the Society of Black Academic Surgeons. His legacy endures through a distinguished professorship and The Akwari Society, both established at Duke to honor his contributions to medicine and… read more about Duke 100 Highlights: Dr. Onyekwere E. Akwari »
Watch the latest episode as Professor Treva Lindsey joins Dr. Mark Anthony Neal (AAS) to discuss her book 'America, Goddam: Violence, Black Women, and the Struggle for Justice. In Season 14, Dr. Neal also hosted Dr. Jasmine Cobb (AAAS) on the Art and Texture of Black Hair and Dr. Candis Watts Smith (PoliSci), on Duke's DEI commitments and the need for innovative strategies to maintain Black enrollment. Explore Left of Black’s Video Archive. read more about Season 14 of Dr. Mark Anthony Neal’s “Left of Black” Podcast »
Special Congratulations to the Faculty who were Promoted to Professor: Drs. Bryan Batch (Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutrition), Carla Brady (Medicine, Gastroenterology), Camille Frazier (Medicine Cardiology), Oke Anakwenze (Orthopaedic Surgery) Kanecia Zimmerman (Pediatrics), Tomi Akinyemiju (Population Health Sciences), Kafui Dzirasa (Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Medicine… read more about Faculty Members in the School of Medicine promoted to Professors and Tenured Faculty! »
Congratulations to Dr. Andrew Jones (Pratt), Dr. Norbert Wilson (Sanford/Divinity), and Dr. Brian McAdoo (NSOE), whom along with other scholars, have been awarded $700,000 to conduct new research on sustainable and equitable solutions to address climate change and its effects. This funding comes from grants provided by the Duke Climate Research Innovation Seed Program (CRISP). Read more about their projects and teams here. read more about Twelve Duke Teams Launch Research on Climate Solutions »
Dr. Crystal Grant (Law), director of Duke’s Children’s Law Clinic, combines social work and legal expertise to support at-risk children. Inspired by compassionate juvenile justice, Dr. Grant empowers parents and integrates social systems, aiming to humanize legal processes and improve outcomes for students and families. Read more about her leadership. read more about Dr. Crystal Grant empowers families through the Duke’s Children’s Law Clinic »
Professor Jesse McCoy, Clinical Professor of Law, has been named director of the Civil Justice Clinic, effective July 1 With a background in private practice and legal aid, he brings a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement. His appointment ensures continuity in providing legal aid to marginalized communities, emphasizing experiential learning for students and empowering low-income clients. Read more. read more about Professor McCoy named director of the Civil Justice Clinic »
On this episode of Due South’s podcast, Dr. Damon Tweedy (SoM) alongside the co-host, discusses his choice to enter the field of psychiatry, despite its stigma within the medical industry. He also spoke on his new book, Facing the Unseen: The Struggle to Center Mental Health in Medicine. Listen below. read more about Why Dr. Damon Tweedy wants to destigmatize mental illness in the U.S. »
In Her new paper “An Ally by any Other Name: Examining the Effects of racial minority leaders as Allies for Advancing Racial Justice” Dr. Angelica Leigh (Fuqua) reveals that racial minority leaders advocating for their group are rated less effective due to perceived favoritism, undermining diversity initiatives. However, framing efforts as amplifying employee ideas can mitigate these perceptions and boost support for equity programs. Read more about the publication here. read more about Dr. Angelica Leigh’s Research Explores Perceptions of Leaders Promoting Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives »
Congratulations to Drs. Annette Joseph-Gabriel (Romance Studies) and Joseph Winters (AAAS/Religious Studies) for being named National Humanities Center (NHC) Fellows for the 2024-2025 academic year. Dr. Joseph-Gabriel will focus on her book, "Enslaved Childhoods: Survival and Storytelling in the Atlantic World," while Dr. Winters will work on his research, "Beyond Imperial Piety: Black Study, the Opaque Sacred, and World De-formation". Read more about the fellowship here. read more about Drs. Annette Joseph-Gabriel and Joseph Winters awarded 2024-2025 National Humanities Center Fellowships »
Special congratulations to Black faculty who received this year’s School of Medicine faculty awards: Drs. Rory Goodwin, (Neurosurgery), Mentoring Excellence Award in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Opeyemi Olabisi, (Medicine), Ruth and A. Morris Williams Faculty Research Prize, Drs. Kenyon Railey (Family Medicine and Community Health) Michelle P. Winn Inclusive Excellence Award, Kanecia Zimmerman, (Pediatrics) Excellence in… read more about School of Medicine Celebrates 2024 Faculty Award Recipients »
In an interview with BrittlePaper, Dr. Tsitsi Jaji (English) a Zimbabwean-American poet and scholar, discusses her upbringing, influences, and literary journey. Raised in Harare, her diverse family and education shaped her poetic and scholarly pursuits. Further, Ama Ata Aidoo's teaching inspired her exploration of African literature. Dr. Jaji's works, like "Beating the Graves" and "Mother Tongues," embody her cultural complexity, addressing themes of identity, language, and connection to Africa with depth… read more about "The Imagination is at the Epicenter of Africa’s Modernity": In Conversation with Dr. Tsitsi Jaji »
Dr. Toyosi Onwuemene is an associate professor in the School of Medicine (SoM), who is a specialist in hemostasis and thrombosis. On this special episode of women in hematology podcast, Dr. Onwuemene talk about the influence of her mentors in her career and the choices and opportunities for women in hematology, both in academic medicine and industry. Learn more about her and listen to the episode. read more about Women in Hematology: A Conversation with Dr.Toyosi Onwuemene »