In May, more than 150 alumni and friends of Duke gathered at the Washington Duke Inn in Durham for the annual Tower Society Luncheon—an event that celebrates those who have chosen to support the university’s future with a gift through their estate or other long-term plans.

The event featured remarks by Dr. Walter Sinnott-Armstrong, Chauncey Stillman Professor of Practical Ethics in Duke’s Department of Philosophy and the Kenan Institute for Ethics. Dr. Sinnott-Armstrong discussed a seed grant-funded project he is leading, in collaboration with Dr. Murali Doraiswamy, a psychiatry professor in the Duke University School of Medicine, to develop an artificial intelligence tool that helps predict end-of-life care preferences of patients with advanced cognitive decline. The presentation sparked a lively conversation among attendees and showcased the kind of pioneering work at Duke made possible through philanthropy.

The Tower Society Luncheon is more than just a gathering—it’s an opportunity to recognize those who have invested in Duke’s mission of delivering transformative education, pathbreaking research, and lifesaving patient care for generations to come. We are truly grateful to our planned giving donors for their forward-looking support!

About the author

Sarah Fish 82

sarah.fish@duke.edu

With nearly three decades’ experience in gift planning and development at Duke, Sarah oversees the University’s robust charitable trust and annuity program of about 600 accounts. She oversees bequests from generous donors who have included Duke in their estate plans. Sarah serves as the stewardship coordinator for the Gift Planning Office. Sarah is a third-generation graduate of Trinity College of Arts & Sciences and bleeds blue for all Duke sports.  When she’s not at work, Sarah loves spending time with her family, volunteering in the Duke community and catering to her two rambunctious poodles.