🎓 Duke News – May 2026
🔬 Research & Innovation
🔬 Blue Devil Mascot Inspires Brain Research at Duke University — Nana Osaki, the Blue Devil mascot, utilized her unique experiences to conduct undergraduate research on communication impairments following brain injuries. Working in Jamila Minga's lab, she studied language use post-right-hemisphere strokes, with findings aimed at enhancing diagnosis and treatment of pragmatic language disorders.
🔬 Duke Researchers Explore Impacts of Rising Extreme Heat — Researchers at Duke University are investigating the effects of extreme heat on health, ecosystems, and communities, covering topics such as kidney disease, economic impacts, and coral reefs. Their work addresses critical issues like heat data gaps in cities and health-system preparedness for a hotter future.
🔬 Duke Researchers Investigate Heat's Impact on Fungi and Health — Two researchers from Duke University are exploring how rising temperatures affect fungi and the potential increased risk of human infection. Their study delves into the genetic changes in fungi driven by heat and the role of trehalose in surviving heat stress, highlighting its significance for antifungal drug development in the context of climate-related health threats.
🎓 Admissions & Policy
🎓 Duke Trustees Conclude Discussions on DST 2.0 and Future Plans — At its quarterly meeting, the Duke University Board of Trustees wrapped up a yearlong engagement process regarding DST 2.0. The board approved the FY 2027 capital and operating budgets while receiving updates on undergraduate admissions and the MADE FOR THIS campaign.
🏛️ Campus Life
🏛️ Duke University to Honor Nearly 7,000 Graduates at Commencement — Duke University will celebrate nearly 7,000 graduates during its commencement ceremony on May 10. This year marks the first QuadEx class to graduate, and Microsoft Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Amy Hood will deliver the commencement address.
🏛️ Duke Arts Community Unites Through Gospel Music Event — A Duke Arts community event united students, artists, and Durham residents through the rich Gospel music traditions of the Black church on May 22, 2026. Led by composer Troy Anthony and his Fire Ensemble, the gathering also featured a performance of The Revival: It is Our Duty at Duke Chapel.
Duke University news digest for May 2026 · Source: Duke University Newsroom