The Duke University Podcast

Duke Campus Update: Open Enrollment, Flu Shots, Football Win, Upcoming Symposia & Weather Outlook (Sept 29–Oct 6)

Hey Blue Devils, it's Jenny with your Campus Update for September 29 through October 6. Let's get you set for the week—fast.
First up—Open Enrollment for 2026 medical benefits kicks off October 6 and runs through October 24. Make sure to review your options and enroll on time.
Next—Flu vaccination season launches October 9. Stay healthy and protect our community by getting your shot.
And—The Duke Cardiac Imaging Symposium is happening October 4 at the Trent Semans Center. If you're interested in the latest in echocardiography and cardiac imaging, this is the place to be.
This past Saturday, our football team dominated Syracuse with a 38-3 victory. Quarterback Darian Mensah threw two touchdown passes to Cooper Barkate, and running back Nate Sheppard added two rushing touchdowns, racking up 168 yards on 15 carries. The Blue Devils amassed 504 yards of offense, averaging nearly 8 yards per play. Next up, we face North Carolina State on October 4. Let's keep the momentum going!
Looking for a midweek break? The Health Reform and Climate Change Symposium is on October 1 at 9 a.m. It's a great opportunity to engage with pressing global issues.
Also, the Duke Cardiac Imaging Symposium on October 4 offers insights into the latest in echocardiography and cardiac imaging. A must-attend for those interested in cutting-edge medical advancements.
And for a quick bite—the campus food trucks are back in full swing this week. Check out the lineup near the Bryan Center for some delicious options between classes.
This week in Durham, expect a mix of sun and clouds with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s. A little rain from a tropical storm is expected on Monday, which may lead to localized flooding. Remaining cloudy, windy, and humid conditions with a shower are expected on Tuesday. The rest of the week looks mostly sunny and less humid. Pack an umbrella for Monday and Tuesday, and enjoy the pleasant weather later in the week.
Your move: Review your medical benefits options before Open Enrollment starts on October 6. Don't wait—make sure you're covered.
That's your quick Campus Update. I'm Jenny—catch you next Monday morning. Tap follow on your podcast app so you never miss a beat.

Duke News Roundup: SPACE Initiative Debuts, Federal Probe Launched, Arts & Museum Milestones, New Children’s Hospital, DirecTV Partnership

Good afternoon, Blue Devils! It's Monday, September 22, 2025, and here's what's happening around Duke University.
Today in Durham, expect mostly sunny skies with a high of 82°F (28°C). As the evening approaches, temperatures will cool down to the mid-60s. A perfect day to enjoy the outdoors!
On September 8, the Duke SPACE Initiative—Science and Policy to Advance Cosmic Exploration—officially launched. The event featured astronaut and Duke alumna Anna Menon, who shared her experiences from the Polaris Dawn mission. The initiative aims to bridge hard science with policy-making to advance our understanding of the cosmos.
The U.S. Department of Education has initiated a civil rights investigation into Duke University and the Duke Law Journal over allegations of race-based discrimination in admissions and hiring practices. The probe focuses on claims that the university used race, color, and national origin as factors in selecting law journal members and in other institutional decisions.
In response to significant federal policy changes affecting research funding and other areas, Duke University has begun a strategic realignment and cost-reduction process. Measures include freezing most staff and faculty hiring, suspending capital spending on new projects, and limiting non-essential expenditures. These steps aim to sustain excellence in the university's core missions amid financial challenges.
Duke Arts has announced an exciting lineup for the 2025-26 season. Opening Week, from September 2–7, featured a variety of performances, including comedian Atsuko Okatsuka and violinist Rachel Barton Pine. Upcoming highlights include Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience and Taylor Mac’s Holiday Sauce. These events showcase a blend of tradition and innovation in the arts.
The Nasher Museum of Art is celebrating its 20th anniversary with special tours and exhibitions. From September 19 to 21, visitors can enjoy free guided tours exploring new exhibitions and works in the museum's collection. No pre-registration is required; simply sign up at the front desk upon arrival.
Duke Health and UNC Health have announced plans to build North Carolina's first standalone children's hospital. The facility, named "NC Children's," will be located in the Research Triangle region and is expected to enhance pediatric care across the state. Groundbreaking is anticipated by 2027, with completion in about six years.
DirecTV has entered into a multi-year college sports marketing and sponsorship deal with Duke University, among other institutions. The agreement includes enterprise-wide intellectual property rights, in-venue signage, and digital media placements. Fans can look forward to enhanced game-day experiences and community engagement initiatives as part of this partnership.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus. Go Duke!

Duke News: Health System CEO Departs, Homecoming & Nasher 20th, Arts Season Launch, Top Global Ranking, and Academic Freedom Review

Good morning, Blue Devils! It's Monday, September 15, 2025, and here's what's happening at Duke University.
Craig Albanese, CEO of Duke University Health System, has announced his departure effective September 30. He will assume the role of President at Kaiser Permanente. Albanese expressed gratitude for his time at Duke and confidence in the team's continued success.
Mark your calendars for September 19-21 as Duke celebrates Homecoming Weekend alongside the Nasher Museum's 20th anniversary. The museum will offer free tours showcasing new exhibitions and collection highlights. No pre-registration is required; simply sign up at the front desk upon arrival.
Duke Arts is kicking off its 2025-26 season with a vibrant Opening Week from September 2-7. The lineup includes interactive art installations, comedy performances, and musical showcases. Highlights feature comedian Atsuko Okatsuka and violinist Rachel Barton Pine.
Duke Football is set to begin its ACC schedule against NC State on Saturday, September 20, at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium. Game time and television details will be announced soon.
A faculty committee has completed a comprehensive review of Duke's academic freedom policies. The report emphasizes the importance of free inquiry and open discussion in advancing knowledge and recommends enhancing the visibility and understanding of these protections for faculty.
Duke University has been recognized among the top five globally for interdisciplinary sciences in the inaugural Times Higher Education rankings. This accolade reflects the university's commitment to fostering a culture of interdisciplinary teaching and scholarship.
That's all for today's update. Stay engaged and informed, and as always, go Duke!

Duke Launches AI Pilot, Faces Federal Probes, Announces Cost-Cutting, and Celebrates Basketball Wins in Major Campus Update

Good afternoon, Blue Devils! It's Monday, September 8th, and here's what's happening at Duke University.
Currently in Durham, it's sunny with a temperature of 61 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect mostly cloudy skies this morning, transitioning to mostly sunny conditions by the afternoon, with temperatures reaching a high of 78 degrees.
Duke University has launched a pilot project in collaboration with OpenAI to study the effects of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, on academic life. Since June 2nd, all undergraduate and professional school members have had free access to ChatGPT-4o, alongside the introduction of "DukeGPT," a university-run AI tool providing private and secure access to educational resources. The Provost’s Initiative aims to evaluate AI's academic implications and will provide recommendations by the end of the fall semester.
In other news, the U.S. Department of Education has initiated a civil rights investigation into Duke University and the Duke Law Journal over allegations of race-based discrimination in editor selection practices. The probe focuses on claims that the university used race, color, and national origin as factors in selecting law journal members, potentially violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have urged Duke to revise its policies and form a panel to address these concerns.
Additionally, the Trump administration has frozen $108 million in federal research funding to Duke University due to allegations of racial discrimination via affirmative action practices. The National Institutes of Health halted the funding following a letter from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Education Department accusing Duke of racial preferences in hiring, admissions, scholarships, and more. The administration demands the university dismantle any race-based advantages and establish a new government-approved Merit and Civil Rights Committee to oversee reform.
In response to financial uncertainties linked to federal funding challenges, Duke University has announced cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze, elimination of vacant positions, and voluntary employee buyouts. The university is implementing a "voluntary separation incentive program" aimed at minimizing the need for involuntary staff reductions. Executive Vice President Daniel Ennis acknowledged the difficulty of the situation.
North Carolina's first standalone children's hospital is set to be established in Apex, a rapidly growing suburban town southwest of Raleigh. Jointly developed by UNC Health and Duke Health, the 500-bed pediatric facility will be part of a larger 230-acre campus that includes outpatient services, behavioral health beds, and a research and education center affiliated with Duke and UNC medical schools. Expected to generate around 8,000 jobs, the hospital will be integrated into the Veridea mixed-use development project. Groundbreaking is set for 2027, with completion anticipated after six years.
The 2024–25 Duke Blue Devils men's basketball team, led by third-year head coach Jon Scheyer, finished the season with a 35–4 overall record. They secured the ACC regular season and tournament championships and advanced to the Final Four in the NCAA tournament. The team played their home games at Cameron Indoor Stadium as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference.
On the women's side, the 2024–25 Duke Blue Devils women's basketball team, under fifth-year head coach Kara Lawson, concluded the season with a 29–8 record. They captured the ACC Tournament championship and advanced to the Elite Eight in the NCAA tournament. The team also played their home games at Cameron Indoor Stadium as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed, stay engaged, and as always, go Blue Devils!

Duke Faces Federal Funding Crisis Amid Discrimination Probe, Launches Arts, Sports & Community Events for September

Hello, Blue Devils! Welcome back to campus. Here's what's happening at Duke University as we kick off September.
The Trump administration has initiated federal investigations into Duke University and Duke Health, alleging systemic racial discrimination in hiring, admissions, and scholarship practices. As a result, the National Institutes of Health has frozen $108 million in federal research funding to Duke. The administration demands the university dismantle any race-based advantages and establish a new government-approved Merit and Civil Rights Committee to oversee reform. This move is part of a wider campaign targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion policies that the administration considers discriminatory.
In response to financial uncertainties linked to federal funding challenges, Duke University has announced cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze, elimination of vacant positions, and voluntary employee buyouts. Nearly 600 staff members are set to depart under the voluntary program, with potential layoffs to follow. The university is implementing a "voluntary separation incentive program" aimed at minimizing the need for involuntary staff reductions.
Despite these challenges, the Duke community continues to thrive with a series of exciting events this month.
From September 2nd to 7th, Duke Arts Presents launches its 2025-26 season with a vibrant week of performances and programs. Highlights include Avital Meshi's interactive performance "Meet GPT-ME," a temporary sculpture by Miler Lagos titled "The Merx Tree," and a concert by musical polymath Sudan Archives. These events showcase the intersection of tradition and innovation in the arts.
Celebrate the Nasher Museum of Art's 20th anniversary during Homecoming Weekend with free tours from September 19th to 21st. Explore new exhibitions and works in the museum's collection with engaging tours led by museum gallery guides. No pre-registration is required; simply sign up at the front desk upon arrival.
The Duke Symphony Orchestra kicks off the season with its Annual Labor Day Weekend Pops Concert on August 31st at 6:00 pm on the East Campus Main Quad. Later in the month, soprano Clara Rottsolk joins the Duke Chorale, Duke University Wind Symphony, and Ciompi Quartet for the Annual Music Department Student and Faculty Gala Concert on September 20th at Baldwin Auditorium.
The Divinity School hosts "DITA2025: Surprising Encounters in Theology and the Arts" from September 4th to 7th, a four-day symposium celebrating the Nicaean Creed's impact on artists, academics, clergy, and parishioners. Additionally, "Practice & Presence: A Gathering for Christians in Health Care" takes place on September 12th and 13th, focusing on the intersection of faith and healthcare practice.
The Duke Blue Devils women's basketball team had a remarkable 2024-25 season, finishing with a 29-8 record and securing their first ACC title since 2013. Sophomore Oluchi Okananwa was named tournament MVP. The men's basketball team also had a strong season, finishing with a 35-4 record and reaching the Final Four under third-year head coach Jon Scheyer.
That's all for now, Blue Devils. Stay engaged, stay informed, and let's make this semester a great one.

Duke Reopens Waitlist, Faces Federal Probe, Launches Healthcare High School, and Kicks Off 2025 Sports Season

Good afternoon, Blue Devils! It's Monday, August 25, 2025, and here's what's happening at Duke University.
In an unexpected move, Duke has reopened its waitlist, enrolling approximately 50 additional students into the Class of 2029. This decision, announced less than two weeks before first-year move-in on August 16, aims to align the class size with recent trends. Interim Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Kathy Phillips, cited factors such as students opting for gap years or changing plans over the summer as reasons for this adjustment.
The U.S. Department of Education has initiated an investigation into Duke University and the Duke Law Journal over allegations of racial discrimination in editor selection practices. The probe will assess whether these practices violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in federally funded education programs. University officials have yet to respond to these allegations.
Duke Football is gearing up for the 2025 season opener against Elon on Saturday, August 30, at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium. Head Coach Manny Diaz has been leading the team through fall camp, with recent practices focusing on both offensive and defensive strategies. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.
In other sports news, SiriusXM has launched an exclusive ACC Fall Sports Season Preview Series, featuring insights into women's and men's soccer, volleyball, and field hockey. Duke's teams are prominently featured, with women's soccer ranked No. 4 and men's soccer at No. 15 in the preseason polls.
Duke University is set to open a healthcare-focused high school in Durham in August 2025. This initiative aims to prepare students for in-demand, well-paying careers in their own communities, addressing the growing need for healthcare professionals in North Carolina.
Duke researchers are making strides in environmental and climate justice. The "Cooling Communities: Strategic Partnerships for Energy Equity in the Carolinas" project, launched in 2024, focuses on energy equity and involves collaboration between the Nicholas Institute, Duke Divinity School, and local nonprofit groups.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus. Go Duke!

Duke Faces Federal Funding Freeze, Launches Cost-Cutting Measures; Soccer, AI Health, and Campus Safety Updates

Good afternoon, Blue Devils! It's Monday, August 18, 2025, and here's what's happening at Duke University.
Currently in Durham, it's sunny with a temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect mostly sunny skies throughout the day, with a high reaching 89 degrees by mid-afternoon. There's a chance of thunderstorms around 2 PM, so keep an umbrella handy if you're heading out.
Duke University is facing significant federal funding challenges. The Trump administration has frozen $108 million in federal research funding due to allegations of racial discrimination in admissions and hiring practices. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education is investigating the Duke Law Journal over concerns about racial preferences in editor selection. In response, Duke has implemented cost-reduction measures, including a hiring freeze and suspension of capital projects, to navigate these financial constraints. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/23a70359ee44a21fdc55bef6dfe52413?utm_source=openai), [reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-government-probes-duke-university-latest-federal-funding-threat-2025-07-28/?utm_source=openai), [president.duke.edu](https://president.duke.edu/2025/06/05/update-strategic-realignment-cost-reduction-process/?utm_source=openai))
In women's soccer, the Duke Blue Devils kicked off their season with a 1–0 record under new head coach Kieran Hall. Midfielder Mia Oliaro and defender Cameron Roller have been named to the Hermann Trophy preseason watchlist, highlighting their exceptional talent.
On the men's side, forward Ulfur Bjornsson has been recognized on the Preseason All-ACC Watchlist, setting high expectations for the upcoming season.
Duke's AI Health initiative has released its latest roundup, featuring significant research findings. Studies indicate that indoor concentrations of microplastics are higher than previously thought, potentially impacting lung health. Another study explores the role of lithium in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting therapeutic potential for lithium orotate.
A multi-phase project to enhance pedestrian safety along Trent Drive is underway, requiring temporary traffic adjustments throughout August. These improvements aim to create a safer environment for students and staff navigating the area.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and take care, Duke community!

Duke Faces Federal Probe, Admissions Shake-Up, New Health High School, and Major Sports Updates in August 2025

Good afternoon, Blue Devils! It's Monday, August 11, 2025, and here's what's happening at Duke University.
Duke University is currently under federal investigation by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services. The probes focus on alleged racial discrimination in admissions and hiring practices. As a result, the Trump administration has frozen $108 million in federal research funding to Duke Health, encompassing the School of Medicine and the broader health system. University officials are reviewing the allegations and working to address the concerns raised by federal authorities.
In an unexpected move, Duke has reopened its waitlist and admitted approximately 50 additional students to the Class of 2029. This decision comes just two weeks before first-year move-in on August 16. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions cited the need to align the class size with recent cohorts as the primary reason for this action. Newly admitted students are now navigating an expedited onboarding process to prepare for the upcoming semester.
Duke Football is in full swing with fall camp as they prepare for the 2025 season opener against Elon on Thursday, August 28, at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium. Head Coach Manny Diaz and the team are focused on building momentum for the upcoming season. Season tickets are available for purchase through the Duke Athletics Ticket Office.
In field hockey news, the Blue Devils have announced a challenging 2025 schedule, featuring eight home games and seven contests against 2024 NCAA Tournament teams. Notably, Duke will host the 2025 NCAA Championship semifinals and finals at Williams Field at Jack Katz Stadium, marking the first time the national champion will be crowned on Duke's home turf.
Duke University is set to open a healthcare-focused high school in Durham in August 2025. This initiative aims to prepare students for in-demand, well-paying careers in the healthcare sector within their own communities. The program is part of a broader effort to invest in early talent development and address workforce needs in the healthcare industry.
A section of Campus Drive will be closed from July 28 to August 3 for maintenance work. Students and staff are advised to plan alternative routes during this period.
Currently, it's mostly cloudy in Durham with a temperature of 75°F (24°C). Showers are expected around 1:00 PM, with thunderstorms likely later this afternoon. Please plan accordingly and stay safe.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and take care, Duke community!

Duke Faces Civil Rights Probe, Federal Funding Freeze; Campus Events, Sports Kickoff, and Opportunities Highlight Busy Week

Good afternoon, Blue Devils! It's Monday, August 4, 2025, and here's what's happening at Duke University.
The U.S. Department of Education has initiated a civil rights investigation into Duke University and the Duke Law Journal over allegations of race-based discrimination in editor selection practices. The probe focuses on claims that the university used race, color, and national origin as factors in selecting law journal members. Additionally, the Trump administration has frozen $108 million in federal research funding to Duke due to these allegations. The National Institutes of Health halted the funding following a letter from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Education Department accusing Duke of racial preferences in hiring, admissions, scholarships, and more. The administration demands the university dismantle any race-based advantages and establish a new government-approved Merit and Civil Rights Committee to oversee reform. Duke has not yet responded to these allegations. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-government-probes-duke-university-latest-federal-funding-threat-2025-07-28/?utm_source=openai), [apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/23a70359ee44a21fdc55bef6dfe52413?utm_source=openai))
On August 21, Duke's Research Integrity Roundtable will host a virtual event titled "Much Ado About Peer Review." This session will explore the strengths and shortcomings of the peer review process and discuss potential alternative processes for maintaining high-quality published research. The event is open to current Duke faculty, staff, and students.
Duke Football is set to kick off the 2025 season with a home game against Elon on Thursday, August 28, at 7:30 p.m. at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium. The game will be broadcast on ACC Network Extra. Season and single-game tickets are now on sale.
In Field Hockey, the Blue Devils will open their season on August 29 against Liberty at home. The team is excited to host the 2025 NCAA Championship semifinals and finals at Williams Field at Jack Katz Stadium, marking the first time a national champion will be crowned on Duke's home turf.
ProPublica's Emerging Reporters Program is accepting applications until August 18. This program provides $9,000 stipends, mentoring, and a trip to a journalism conference for five students who work or want to work at college journalism outlets. It's a great opportunity for aspiring journalists to gain experience and support.
Currently in Durham, it's partly sunny with a temperature of 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures are expected to rise throughout the day, reaching a high of 81 degrees by late afternoon. Intermittent clouds are expected, with temperatures cooling to the mid-70s in the evening.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and have a great day, Duke!