Duke University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

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

Leadership Roles at Duke University

  • Chief Operating Officer - Mary Grace Martin
  • Chief Operating Officer Duke Human Vaccine Institute - Thomas Denny
  • President - Matt Yelovich
  • Co-President - Irene Biju
  • President - Arthur Edens
  • President - Ayse Celebi
  • President of CHANCE Tutoring - Roxana Haas
  • Chief of Staff - Amiee Goforth
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Tracey Futhey
  • Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology - Benjamin Pratt
  • Mary Grace Martin - Chief Operating Officer

    Mary Grace Martin, the Chief Operating Officer at Duke University, directs the operational framework supporting the institution's extensive research and educational endeavors. Overseeing the integration of patient care with medical research and education within Duke's comprehensive health system, Martin ensures seamless execution of strategic initiatives. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation across various academic and medical departments, driving efficiency in administrative processes, and supporting the university's global operational footprint, including international campuses. By managing day-to-day operations, Mary Grace Martin directly contributes to the university's mission of academic excellence and groundbreaking research, ensuring that the complex infrastructure required for world-class education and healthcare functions effectively. The focus remains on enhancing operational scalability and supporting the strategic growth objectives of Duke University across all its diverse functions.

    Thomas Denny - Chief Operating Officer Duke Human Vaccine Institute

    Thomas Denny, the Chief Operating Officer Duke Human Vaccine Institute at Duke University, directs the operational and administrative functions critical to advancing vaccine research and development. Denny oversees the strategic planning and execution of operational initiatives within the institute, ensuring efficient resource management and seamless integration of research activities with clinical trials and global health efforts. This leadership role involves managing complex project timelines, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring compliance with rigorous scientific and regulatory standards. By optimizing the operational framework of the Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Thomas Denny directly supports the development of novel vaccines and contributes to global public health initiatives. The focus remains on enhancing the institute's capacity for groundbreaking research and its ability to translate scientific discoveries into tangible health solutions worldwide.
    Thomas Denny

    Matt Yelovich - President

    Matt Yelovich, the President at Duke University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for key institutional objectives. Yelovich guides the overall vision and operational framework, ensuring alignment with Duke's commitment to academic excellence and pioneering research. This significant leadership position involves overseeing strategic planning processes, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, and driving initiatives that enhance the university's global standing and impact. By steering critical university functions, Matt Yelovich ensures that Duke University continues to excel in its mission of education, research, and service. The focus is on advancing the university's strategic priorities and reinforcing its reputation as a premier institution for higher learning and discovery, contributing to its sustained growth and influence.

    Irene Biju - Co-President

    Irene Biju, the Co-President at Duke University, shares executive leadership responsibilities, driving strategic initiatives and operational oversight. Biju collaborates with other leaders to advance the university's mission in research, education, and global engagement. This role involves guiding key projects, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring the effective implementation of institutional strategies. By working in tandem with fellow executives, Irene Biju enhances the university's capacity for innovation and academic achievement. The focus is on strengthening Duke University's position as a leading research institution and contributing to its ongoing success in educating future leaders and addressing complex global challenges through dedicated academic pursuits.

    Arthur Edens - President

    Arthur Edens, the President at Duke University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for critical institutional functions. Edens guides the university's vision, ensuring operational excellence and fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking research and academic advancement. This leadership role involves overseeing strategic planning, driving key initiatives, and promoting collaboration across diverse departments and global campuses. By directing significant university operations, Arthur Edens directly supports Duke University's commitment to scholarly excellence and its role in shaping future leaders. The focus remains on enhancing the university's impact and reinforcing its reputation as a premier institution for higher learning and discovery, contributing to its sustained influence.

    Ayse Celebi - President

    Ayse Celebi, the President at Duke University, offers executive leadership and strategic guidance for key institutional objectives. Celebi directs efforts to enhance academic programs, advance research initiatives, and expand the university's global reach. This position involves overseeing strategic planning, fostering innovation, and ensuring operational efficiency across various university functions. By leading critical initiatives, Ayse Celebi directly contributes to Duke University's mission of academic distinction and its role in addressing societal challenges through research and education. The focus is on strengthening the university's competitive edge and reinforcing its commitment to scholarly excellence and impactful discovery.

    Roxana Haas - President of CHANCE Tutoring

    Roxana Haas, the President of CHANCE Tutoring at Duke University, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of the tutoring program. Haas oversees the development and implementation of tutoring services designed to support student academic success across various disciplines. This role involves managing program staff, ensuring the quality of educational support provided, and fostering partnerships within the university community to maximize student engagement and learning outcomes. By directing the CHANCE Tutoring initiative, Roxana Haas directly enhances the academic support infrastructure at Duke University, contributing to student retention and achievement. The focus is on providing accessible, high-quality academic assistance that empowers students to excel in their studies and achieve their educational goals.

    Amiee Goforth - Chief of Staff

    Amiee Goforth, the Chief of Staff at Duke University, provides strategic support and operational coordination across key university initiatives. Goforth manages critical projects and facilitates communication between executive leadership and various departments, ensuring alignment with Duke's overarching mission. This role involves advising senior leadership on strategic priorities, streamlining administrative processes, and driving the execution of key institutional objectives. By coordinating efforts across Duke's extensive academic and health system components, Amiee Goforth enhances the effectiveness of leadership decisions and operational implementation. The focus is on enabling efficient decision-making and fostering collaboration to advance Duke University's standing in research, education, and global engagement. Goforth's strategic oversight ensures that the university's complex operations run cohesively, supporting its commitment to academic rigor and societal impact.

    Tracey Futhey - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Tracey Futhey, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Duke University, architects and executes the institution's comprehensive technology strategy. Futhey oversees the development and maintenance of robust IT infrastructure, ensuring secure and efficient digital operations that support cutting-edge research, advanced academic programs, and integrated health systems. This leadership position involves driving innovation in information technology, managing cybersecurity protocols, and implementing digital solutions that enhance learning, discovery, and patient care across Duke's global presence. By directing the IT division, Tracey Futhey ensures that technological advancements empower faculty, staff, and students, facilitating collaboration and operational excellence. The strategic implementation of technology under Futhey's guidance is critical to Duke University's mission of academic distinction and its role as a leading research institution.

    Benjamin Pratt - Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology

    Benjamin Pratt, the Chief Administrative Officer, Department of Dermatology at Duke University, manages the comprehensive administrative and operational functions for the dermatology department. Pratt oversees financial management, human resources, and strategic planning to support the department's clinical, research, and educational missions. This role involves ensuring efficient departmental operations, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a collaborative environment for faculty and staff. By directing administrative activities, Benjamin Pratt directly contributes to the department's ability to deliver exceptional patient care, conduct groundbreaking dermatological research, and provide high-quality training for future medical professionals. Pratt's leadership ensures the department's strategic alignment with Duke University's broader goals in medicine and research.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Duke University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Duke University?
    Duke University is led by Mary Grace Martin (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Denny (Chief Operating Officer Duke Human Vaccine Institute) and Matt Yelovich (President).
    Who is part of Duke University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Duke University includes leaders such as Mary Grace Martin (Chief Operating Officer), Thomas Denny (Chief Operating Officer Duke Human Vaccine Institute), Matt Yelovich (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, Chief Operating Officer Duke Human Vaccine Institute, President, Co-President, President.