Founded in 2005 and funded by the Office of the President at Duke University, Duke Conversations supports learning opportunities for Duke students outside of the classroom through engaging dialogue between students and compelling guests of their choice. The program is designed to inspire students’ intellectual curiosity; students gain perspectives from those beyond Duke and benefit from the wisdom that comes from their guests’ life and/or professional experiences.
A high-interaction program, Duke Conversations emphasizes the value of intimate and informal exchange of ideas as an alternative to the traditional prepared speech. Each Duke Conversation includes a tour of campus; a casual Dinner Dialogue with up to 16 students; and a Community Hour, which affords the guest an opportunity to tell his/her story or demonstrate a craft or skill in the company of 25-50 undergraduates.
Duke Conversations encourages students to dream big as they select topics, and to nominate guests who are the best qualified individuals to address those subjects – those who possess a record of accomplishments or contributions to society. Duke Conversations guests are selected by a panel of Duke students, faculty and staff, ensuring that the chosen guests will appeal to a broad spectrum of the Duke undergraduate community.
- The Chronicle's story on Duke Conversations (9/11/09)
- Duke Today's story on Duke Conversations (9/9/09)
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