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.