Dear Sanford Alumni and Friends, 

From the rapid rise of artificial intelligence to the challenges of cybersecurity, data privacy, and online trust, the questions at the heart of technology policy have never been more urgent. Around the world, policymakers, technologists, and civil society are grappling with how innovation can advance society without undermining democracy, safety, or equity. 

At Duke University — and particularly within the Sanford School of Public Policy — this intersection of technology and the public good has become a defining strength. Our faculty conduct research on platform accountability, privacy, AI ethics, cybersecurity, and data governance, while preparing students to lead responsibly in an increasingly digital world. 

Throughout the month of November, we are highlighting Sanford’s tech policy teaching, research, and engagement on our social media channels and on our website. From executive education and applied research to interdisciplinary partnerships and new academic programs, Sanford’s technology policy enterprise illustrates how philanthropy unlocks potential, leadership channels it, and partnerships sustain it.

Read the Full Blog

Manoj Mohanan

Interim Dean and Creed C. Black Professor in the Sanford School of Public Policy

Deep Tech Policies – AI and Digital Sovereignty 

November 19, 6:00 – 8:00 pm EST 

Duke in DC 

Sanford Professor and Interim Director of the Duke Initiative for Science & Society David Hoffman will lead a discussion highlighting how “Deep Tech at Duke brings together leaders in science, policy, and innovation to shape the technologies defining our future.” 

Please join us for an insightful evening as Professor Hoffman answers questions such as - How can governments around the world trust AI to benefit their citizens? Why is Duke uniquely positioned to move policy and research forward on Deep Tech priorities? What roles should US policy play in the global role out of AI solutions?

Register and Learn More 

Policy 360 Alumni Office Hours 

Will AI Prompt a New Golden Era?

November 21, 12:00 – 12:45 pm EST 

Virtual Platform: Zoom 

Curious about what our faculty are researching and teaching? Do you have questions that didn’t come up in the podcast? Join us for Alumni Office Hours — a deeper dive into the podcast episode with Professor Robyn Caplan. This is your opportunity to continue the conversation, ask your questions, and explore new insights into her work. All Duke Alumni are welcome to join the conversation. 

Register and Learn More 

Join us for a conversation with NC Attorney General Jeff Jackson as he shares his perspectives on how states can keep pace with the need for new tech policies, particularly protecting seniors and children online. The AG will reflect on his unique career path (from military service to law to public office), offering insights into how service-focused and engaged citizenry is critical in 2025. 

Jackson will speak at Duke as part of the Sanford Lecture Series. Endowed by the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust, this prestigious lecture is open to the public and the entire Duke University campus. 

Register and Learn More

“The Duke Sanford School of Public Policy’s mission is to improve lives by researching the most pressing public policy issues and preparing students for lives of leadership, civic engagement and public service.” 

In response to our growing graduate programs and the continued question from our graduate program alumni on how they can volunteer their time and resources to the school, we are launching the Sanford Graduate Program Alumni Council. The mission of the council will be to sustain an active partnership with the Sanford School of Public Policy by fostering opportunities for MPP, MIDP, MNSP, and MPA alumni to serve as trusted advisors, advocates, and ambassadors. The Council will promote a spirit of collaboration to advance the School’s priorities and mission.   

The responsibilities of the council, the commitments, and structure of the council are outlined within the council website. As you explore this opportunity, please reach out to Maggie Stroud should you have any questions. 

Akanksha Ray PPS’20 

Director of Global Policy at Credo AI

Akanksha helps organizations around the world use artificial intelligence in ways that are ethical, transparent, and inclusive. Her work focuses on ensuring that technological progress benefits people and communities, not just institutions.

Akanksha’s interest in technology and policy first took shape at Duke, where she studied public policy and economics and immersed herself in the Program in American Grand Strategy and Sanford’s Cyber Policy initiative. 

Learn More About Akanksha's Journey

Each month, we want to share updates from our alumni.

Do you have a new job? Receive a promotion or an award?

Celebrating a wedding, birth, or other milestone?

Thank you to the nearly 1,400 alumni, parents, and friends who contributed to the Sanford Annual Fund during the 2024–2025 academic year. Your generosity helps Sanford provide scholarships and fellowships to deserving students, attract and retain exceptional faculty by supporting their teaching and research, and strengthen academic and service-learning programs.

The 2025 Sanford Annual Fund Honor Roll recognizes the nearly 400 alumni, parents, and friends whose leadership-level giving is honored through membership in the Duke Annual Fund Leadership Giving Societies.

Thank you to our amazing alumni who recently volunteered!

August Mao MPP'16 - Blake Rosser MPP'19 - Geoff Coltrane MPP'05

Krupa Kaneria MPP'25 - Rich Gittings MPP'19 - Will Hager MPP'23

Your participation brings invaluable knowledge and experience to the table for fellow alumni and current students, and we greatly appreciate your efforts. As a Duke alum, your unique experiences and talents have the power to make a difference in the lives of others. Consider lending your support as a volunteer to strengthen the Duke network while giving back.  

Sanford School Alumni & Giving 

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