MADE FOR THIS: Duke Health 

Philanthropy plays a crucial role in bridging funding gaps and fostering innovation in universities and academic medicine. It enhances medical education, advances research, and improves patient care, allowing these institutions to thrive despite various challenges. Within MADE FOR THIS: The Duke Campaign, key priorities address pressing global issues and prepare future health care professionals to lead in a rapidly changing world. The Duke University School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and Health System demonstrate how philanthropic support can drive innovation and excellence in these areas. 

Advancements in the School of Medicine 

At the School of Medicine, the Duke Science and Technology (DST) initiative exemplifies how philanthropy enhances scientific and technological research. Supported by significant investments, DST focuses on areas such as genomics, data science, and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to attract and retain leading faculty while providing flexible funding for innovative research projects. 

Innovations in the School of Nursing 

The Duke School of Nursing also benefits from philanthropic support that advances nursing science and technology. The Ruby L. Wilson Center for Nursing Science and Innovation, funded by a generous estate gift, serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research and innovation. The center empowers faculty and students to enhance nursing science and improve health outcomes. 

Addressing Climate Change 

Duke is committed to addressing climate change through the Duke Climate Commitment.  This initiative includes projects that explore the intersection of climate and health, combining the efforts of Duke University Health System, the School of Medicine, and School of Nursing, all of which work in partnership with the Duke Global Health Institute.

Enhancing the Student Experience 

Philanthropy significantly enhances the student experience in both medicine and nursing. Gifts to the School of Nursing fund scholarships and support student success initiatives, preparing the next generation of nurse leaders. Similarly, the School of Medicine benefits from donor support for need-based financial aid for medical students, helping to eliminate economic barriers. This fosters a student body that can thrive in a conducive learning environment and develop careers that address societal needs. Such support ensures that all students, regardless of their financial backgrounds, can succeed at Duke. 

Advancing Health Care Innovations 

Moreover, philanthropy plays a vital role in advancing health care innovations and improving community health. Across the School of Nursing, the School of Medicine, and the Duke University Health System, donor support is leveraged to transform health care delivery, reduce health inequities, and support research, clinical programs, and patient care. This backing ensures that Duke providers are well-prepared to lead in a rapidly changing health care landscape. 

The Impact of Gift Planning 

Gift planning is a powerful tool that can significantly support the priorities outlined in the MADE FOR THIS campaign. By including Duke Health in their estate plans, donors can ensure sustained funding for critical initiatives and help provide long-term financial stability, enabling the Duke University School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and Health System to continue their innovative work, attract and retain top faculty, support interdisciplinary research, and offer scholarships and financial aid to deserving students. 

Gift planning also empowers Duke Health with a stable future to address pressing global issues, reduce health inequities, and improve community health. Using this giving strategy, donors can leave a lasting legacy that drives excellence and innovation in health care for generations to come. 

TAGS: Made For This

About the author

Tia Barnes J.D.’03

tia.barnes@duke.edu

Tia is the senior director of gift planning for Duke Health. She works with alumni, grateful patients, and supporters of the university’s academic medicine and research programs to explore tax-wise philanthropic strategies, including those involving retirement and estate planning, life income gifts, and gifts of complex assets. Tia earned her law degree from Duke Law School and her undergraduate degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She lives in Durham with her family.