Dear Colleagues,

This is an exciting time for our undergraduate programs as we collectively deepen our commitment to fostering an environment that promotes intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and a sense of belonging for every student.

The Office of Undergraduate Education programs and opportunities outlined in this email exist in a landscape at Duke that continues to re-invest in the excellent educators serving our students. My counterparts across the University are committed to supporting Duke faculty.

We recognize that the student experience is a shared responsibility, and your contributions—whether in the classroom, through research mentorship, or by creating meaningful co-curricular opportunities—are vital to student success. Thank you again for your passion and dedication. I look forward to working alongside you in what promises to be another remarkable year for our students and our community.

Sincerely,
Candis Watts Smith, Ph.D. 
Vice Provost of Undergraduate Education
Professor, Political Science

The Judith Deckers Prize is a recently established award at Duke University that recognizes excellence in undergraduate teaching. It aims to celebrate and promote outstanding teaching practices in and outside the classroom, focusing on faculty who have significantly impacted the student experience. The Deckers Prize acknowledges individual achievements and underscores Duke's commitment to fostering a culture of undergraduate teaching excellence. Three exceptional faculty members will receive this prestigious honor, which includes a monetary prize of $35,000 for each winner.

In its inaugural cycle, the Deckers Prize award received nominations for 120 faculty from over 500 Duke staff, students, alums, and faculty. Reviewers worked to narrow the candidate pool to 12 exceptional faculty finalists listed below along with an excerpt from their nomination. A committee of representatives across the schools teaching undergraduates are reviewing materials from each candidate. Duke Provost Alec D. Gallimore will announce the inaugural award winners in January 2025.

Bass Teaching Triangles

The Bass Teaching Triangles program connects three colleagues to discuss and reflect on teaching experiences and methodologies without the pressure of evaluation. The main goal of Bass Teaching Triangles is to promote collaborative learning by sharing teaching practices and gaining inspiration from colleagues, emphasizing a supportive environment focused on professional development.

Office of Global Health & Safety Trainings

OGHS is committed to promoting the health and safety of the Duke community while traveling abroad. Attending training and presentations can equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate health and safety challenges throughout your program. Trainings facilitated by experienced OGHS team members, covers essential health and safety topics like suicide prevention, crisis management, and challenging student interactions. Registration is required.

Bass Seminar on Teaching Excellence: Approaches to teaching and engaging students during a contentious election year 

with Mike Munger, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science, Pfizer,Inc./Edmund T. Pratt, Jr. University Distinguished Professor, Professor of Economics, Professor in Sanford School of Public Policy and Gunther Peck, Ph.D., Associate Professor in History, Associate Professor in Sanford School of Public Policy

Professors Michael Munger and Gunther Peck will share their approaches and experiences to engage students as the election nears. This session will also involve time for discussion and conversation for participants to share strategies from their own classroom experience. This session is moderated by Candis Watts Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education. Lunch is provided. Registration is required.

Date: Monday, Oct. 21, 12:00 pm - 1:15 pm
Location: Holsti-Anderson Family Assembly Room, Rubenstein Library

Duke Immerse Faculty Proposals

Duke Immerse is a semester-long program in which undergraduates enroll in a set of four campus-based courses, travel, and engage in field-based learning, built around a global theme or issue. Programs are offered in the fall and spring. Each Immerse offering is designed and led by a cohort of 2-4 faculty. Faculty proposals are due by November 15.

Muser - Project Posting Period

Duke Muser has begun its Spring 2025 research project posting period. We invite you and all research mentors to post Spring undergraduate research opportunities on the Muser website. Passionate undergraduates across Duke are eager to connect with you and your work. The Spring 2025 posting period runs from September 30, 2024 - October 15, 2024.

Summer 2026 Faculty-Led Study Away Proposals

The Global Education Office (GEO) seeks new program models, program lengths, and course offerings that can meet departmental needs and major requirements. Faculty interested in developing and leading a U.S.-based or international study away program for Summer 2026 or beyond can find program development information via the linked button.  

Please send your emails to vpue@duke.edu and your feedback or ideas will be shared with the leadership team anonymously unless requested otherwise.