Engagement & Advocacy

The committee for Engagement & Advocacy strives to help aspiring Duke students reach their potential by identifying resources and information that benefit different student groups. It is built on the idea that Duke’s resources are not the privilege of any individuals and should be available to all students who are qualified. The committee recognizes that the hard work and ambitions of Duke students are not always coupled with appropriate assistance and mentorship. The committee aims to elevate the undergraduate experience by providing the necessary resources and accessibility guidance so that students can live effectively at Duke, without fear of hunger, hidden costs, or other equal access concerns.

Committee Projects

Rapid Response Council

E&A is inviting Duke administrators and student leaders to roundtable discussions, from which admins will take feedback from student leaders, and student leaders will pass on admins’ comments to their respective student groups.

Hurricane Infographic

E&A is creating visually accessible infographics to allow Duke students to better understand local hurricanes and learn about effective prevention.

Focus / Constellation Guide

E&A is partnering with AA to improve the transparency and visibility of both programs to first-year students, aiming to eliminate information gaps for students’ class selections.

Devil's Dresser

E&A is working with the Director of FGLI Affairs and the President’s Council for Economic Opportunity to establish Duke’s first professional clothing closet.

Multicultural Presentations

E&A has assembled a list of cultural organization leaders on campus, and is seeking passionate students to give customized presentations about their roots and backgrounds.

Undergraduate Food Pantry

E&A, in collaboration with Campus Life & Services & Sustainability, is working on a foundation to create the first undergraduate food pantry on Duke’s campus to ameliorate issues of food insecurity as revealed through DSG’s Hunger Report (link TBA).

Free Laundry Incentive

Due to a past E&A initiative, the committee will oversee the 2025-6 implementation of free laundry, eliminating cost issues for students across campus. Free laundry has now been included in the cost of tuition.

Accessibility Awareness Initiative

E&A is working to improve the campus experience for disabled students, with efforts focused on housing, Duke games, transportation, and general lifestyle changes.

Free Menstrual Products in Dorms

E&A worked with Progress Period to ensure the supply of free menstrual products in dorms, and is currently seeking a sustainable commitment to funding for the same products

International Mentorship Program

The ‘I-buddy’ program pairs first-year international students with upperclassmen (domestic and international) interested in cultural exchanges & mentorship. The pairings are primarily based on cultural backgrounds, nationalities, and languages spoken.