Duke University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Duke University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, administration, and human resources.

Driven by academic excellence, Duke University is dedicated to advancing knowledge and educating future leaders through rigorous research and comprehensive programs, maintaining a significant global impact in medicine, law, business, and engineering.

Leadership Roles at Duke University

  • Chief Operating Officer - Ty Rorick
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - Kristie Barazsu
  • Co President - Carina Lei
  • President - Alexandra Himmel
  • Chief of Staff - Kelly Cuttle
  • Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President - Devin Ward
  • Division Chief Human Resources Officer - Martay Smith
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Dara Purvis
  • Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology - Benjamin Pratt
  • Chief Administrative Officer, Radiation Oncology (CAO) - J.T. Solomon
  • Ty Rorick - Chief Operating Officer

    Ty Rorick, the Chief Operating Officer at Duke University, directs the operational framework supporting the institution's extensive academic and research endeavors. Rorick oversees the strategic implementation of administrative functions, ensuring efficient resource allocation across departments and facilitating the seamless integration of patient care with medical research and education within Duke's health system. This leadership role involves optimizing operational workflows to enhance productivity and support Duke's global initiatives, including international campuses and research partnerships. By driving operational excellence, Ty Rorick directly contributes to the university's mission of advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. The Chief Operating Officer's purview encompasses the management of facilities, technology infrastructure, and support services essential for maintaining Duke's position as a leading global research university.

    Kristie Barazsu - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Kristie Barazsu, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Duke University, directs the comprehensive operational strategy and administrative functions of the institution. Barazsu oversees the execution of academic and research initiatives, ensuring efficient resource management and the integration of Duke's extensive health system. This dual role involves driving operational excellence across all university divisions, from undergraduate education to advanced medical research and global partnerships. By leading strategic planning and operational implementation, Kristie Barazsu significantly contributes to Duke's mission of advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. The President & Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures the effective functioning of university operations, supporting its commitment to academic rigor and global impact.

    Carina Lei - Co President

    Carina Lei, the Co President at Duke University, shares leadership responsibilities for strategic direction and institutional advancement. Lei collaborates on key initiatives, driving forward the university's mission of academic excellence and groundbreaking research. This role involves overseeing critical operational areas and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance Duke's global standing. By guiding strategic planning and operational execution, Carina Lei directly contributes to the university's commitment to innovation and comprehensive educational programs. The Co President's influence extends to shaping the future of the institution and ensuring its continued impact in higher education and research.
    Carina Lei

    Alexandra Himmel - President

    Alexandra Himmel, the President at Duke University, leads the institution's strategic vision and operational execution. Himmel directs comprehensive initiatives aimed at advancing academic excellence, fostering innovative research, and expanding the university's global reach. This leadership role involves overseeing all major university functions, including educational programs, health system integration, and international partnerships. By championing strategic growth and operational efficiency, Alexandra Himmel directly contributes to Duke's reputation as a premier research university. The President's focus is on driving institutional progress and ensuring the sustained impact of Duke's contributions to knowledge and society.

    Kelly Cuttle - Chief of Staff

    Kelly Cuttle, the Chief of Staff at Duke University, provides strategic support and operational guidance to key leadership functions. Cuttle manages critical initiatives, ensuring alignment with the university's overarching mission and academic objectives. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental projects, facilitating communication between various administrative units, and driving the execution of strategic priorities. Overseeing special projects and advising senior leadership, Kelly Cuttle ensures that operational plans effectively support Duke's commitment to research excellence and comprehensive educational programs. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to enhancing institutional effectiveness and supporting the university's global presence through coordinated efforts.

    Devin Ward - Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President

    Devin Ward, the Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President at Duke University, executes strategic directives and manages critical administrative operations. Ward facilitates the Executive Vice President's agenda, ensuring seamless coordination across academic, research, and health system functions. This position involves overseeing key projects, optimizing resource deployment, and driving initiatives that enhance Duke's global standing. By managing complex operational challenges and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, Devin Ward directly supports the university's commitment to innovation and academic rigor. The Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President's influence extends to streamlining administrative processes and reinforcing Duke's reputation for excellence in education and research.

    Martay Smith - Division Chief Human Resources Officer

    Martay Smith, the Division Chief Human Resources Officer at Duke University, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of human capital management across the institution. Smith oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive HR policies and programs designed to support Duke's diverse workforce, encompassing faculty, staff, and researchers. This critical role involves fostering a positive and productive work environment, driving talent acquisition and retention strategies, and ensuring compliance with all labor regulations. By championing employee development and organizational effectiveness, Martay Smith directly contributes to the university's mission of academic excellence and groundbreaking research. The Division Chief Human Resources Officer's focus is on building a robust and engaged workforce essential for Duke's continued success.

    Dara Purvis - Chief Administrative Officer

    Dara Purvis, the Chief Administrative Officer at Duke University, manages the administrative and operational functions critical to the university's academic and research missions. Purvis oversees the strategic allocation of resources, ensuring efficient departmental operations and supporting faculty and staff in their endeavors. This role involves driving administrative process improvements, enhancing operational effectiveness, and facilitating collaboration across various university divisions. By providing essential administrative leadership, Dara Purvis directly supports Duke's commitment to innovation and educational excellence. The Chief Administrative Officer's purview includes managing budgets, overseeing support services, and ensuring the smooth functioning of administrative infrastructure that underpins the university's global impact.

    Benjamin Pratt - Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology

    Benjamin Pratt, the Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology at Duke University, directs the administrative and operational framework for a key medical department. Pratt oversees the strategic management of resources, ensuring efficient departmental functioning and supporting the clinical, research, and educational activities within dermatology. This role involves optimizing operational workflows, managing departmental budgets, and facilitating collaboration among faculty, staff, and researchers. By driving administrative excellence, Benjamin Pratt directly contributes to the department's advancements in patient care and medical innovation. The Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology's leadership ensures the seamless execution of departmental objectives, reinforcing Duke's strength in specialized medical fields.

    J.T. Solomon - Chief Administrative Officer, Radiation Oncology (CAO)

    J.T. Solomon, the Chief Administrative Officer, Radiation Oncology (CAO) at Duke University, manages the administrative and operational framework for the Radiation Oncology department. Solomon oversees strategic resource allocation, ensuring efficient departmental operations and supporting the clinical, research, and educational activities within this specialized medical field. This position involves optimizing operational workflows, managing departmental budgets, and fostering collaboration among physicians, researchers, and staff. By driving administrative excellence, J.T. Solomon directly contributes to the department's advancements in cancer treatment and research innovation. The Chief Administrative Officer, Radiation Oncology (CAO)'s leadership ensures the effective execution of departmental objectives, reinforcing Duke's leadership in oncological care.
    J.T. Solomon

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Duke University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Duke University?
    Duke University is led by Ty Rorick (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Kristie Barazsu (President & Chief Operating Officer) and Carina Lei (Co President).
    Who is part of Duke University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Duke University includes leaders such as Ty Rorick (Chief Operating Officer), Kristie Barazsu (President & Chief Operating Officer), Carina Lei (Co President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Duke University have?
    Duke University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Duke University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Duke University includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer, Co President, President, Chief of Staff.