Marketing & Communications Fellow

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

At Duke University, we celebrate individuality, lived experience, and the power of storytelling to build community. As the Marketing and Communications Fellow at the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture (MLWC), you’ll bring your voice, creativity, and perspective to a mission-driven team dedicated to honoring culture, history, and community. This fellowship is designed for a recent graduate eager to grow professionally while contributing meaningfully to a vibrant cultural center within higher education. This position is a two year appointment with the option for a one year renewal upon mutual agreement.

Be Bold.

This role invites you to think creatively, communicate strategically, and make an impact through compelling content and outreach.

What You’ll Do

Content Development (30%)

• Create engaging written, visual, and multimedia content for MLWC’s website, newsletters, and social media platforms.
• Research and produce storytelling content that highlights MLWC programs, events, and community impact.
• Manage and maintain an editorial calendar to ensure consistent, timely content delivery.

• Develop and execute social media strategies that grow MLWC’s online presence and engagement.
• Monitor and respond to social media interactions in alignment with MLWC’s mission, values, and voice.
• Track engagement metrics and prepare performance insights to inform future strategy.

• Support the development of clear, consistent, and compelling messaging aligned with MLWC’s mission and Duke values.
• Assist with targeted marketing tools and outreach resources.
• Manage email campaigns, newsletters, and listserv communications.
• Coordinate communications with Duke departments and campus partners regarding MLWC events and initiatives.

• Design visually engaging promotional materials (flyers, graphics, presentations) using tools such as Canva and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Ensure brand consistency across all platforms and materials.

• Share opportunities relevant to the MLWC community.
• Offer a post-graduate perspective to help inform MLWC initiatives.
• Support event coordination through communications, outreach, and student engagement.
• Perform related duties to support departmental, divisional, and University goals as assigned.

At Duke, you’ll find a collaborative environment that values learning, innovation, and cultural engagement. This fellowship offers hands-on experience in marketing and communications within a nationally recognized institution, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to contribute to work that matters.

What You Bring

Education/Training

• Work requires communications, analytical and organizational skills generally acquired through completion of a bachelor's degree program.

• None required beyond education

Strongly Preferred Experiences:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or related field.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with attention to detail.
• Basic graphic design and multimedia skills (experience with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar tools preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Prior experience with social media content creation and strategy.
• Knowledge of Black culture, history, and contributions of the African Diaspora.
• Experience with website content management and digital marketing strategies.
• Previous involvement in student affairs or cultural center operations.

• Ability to analyze engagement data and adjust marketing strategies accordingly.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Ability to adapt communication styles for different platforms and audiences.
• Creative problem-solving skills and an innovative mindset.

Apply now and help amplify stories, strengthen community, and advance cultural education at Duke University.

Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $18.00 to USD $22.84. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy- related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: [email protected]; phone: 919-668-1267).