Hello Blue Devils.
As we officially kick off the fall semester, I’m delighted to welcome you to this new academic year.
Whether you are new to Duke or an established student, staff or faculty member, I’m thrilled that you are here, and I hope you’ve had the opportunity to enjoy some rest and relaxation this summer.
The opening of the academic year is an ideal time for reflection on the enduring importance of our academic mission and values.
It’s also a reminder of the many ways we, collectively, embody James B. Duke’s founding vision of our university as an institution that uplifts mankind through teaching, research, patient care, and our engagement here in Durham and around the world.
This semester, some of our faculty, staff and students will be adjusting to new ways of working together, and some may even feel a bit uncertain about the results of our recent strategic realignment process.
That’s understandable.
Though some of the ways we work together may change, Duke will always deliver a world-class educational experience for our students; a vibrant and caring workplace for our staff and faculty; exceptional health care for our patients; and groundbreaking research for society.
I’m incredibly proud to be your colleague and President, and I’m certain that Duke is well positioned to meet the challenges and, most importantly, to embrace the many opportunities of the future.
I hope you join me in looking forward to the tremendous possibilities of the year ahead, and I can’t wait to see you on campus.