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Rx SAVINGS By using mail order, employees on maintenance medicines save money because a new $100 prescription deductible is waived for mail order.
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DEAN’S DIALOGUE The deans of Duke Law and the Nicholas School of the Environment discuss the effects of a sour economy on their schools.
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SUSTAINABLE DUKE Learn five ways you can join Duke’s grassroots effort to help the institution become climate neutral by 2024.
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NEW INTERACTIVE VIDEO, MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES HELP KEEP STAFF, FACULTY CONNECTED staff specialist in Duke’s economics and Duke’s YouTube channel, Duke is poised department, Jim Speckart had heard a to deliver more information to an increasingly Just lot about the nationally known Duke mobile campus. economist but never actually talked with him. A new suite of DukeMobile applications because But in July, Speckart tuned in from his enables users to browse campus events we can put desk to watch Dan Ariely on Duke’s new online calendars, access campus maps, check live everything online, “Office Hours” and even asked a question about sports scores and view iTunes U and YouTube Ariely’s research using Twitter. videos from mobile devices. are we better for “When a professor works in your With Duke-specific mobile applications, having done it? We department, you may process their paperwork employees like Celeste Hodges with mobile need to identify the devices now have instant access to Duke to get reimbursed, but you don’t ever get into a conversation,” Speckart said. “Live online information even when away from their desks. content worth promoting – whether it’s sessions like that allow the personal Hodges, a Web developer in the computer research data, course learning material, communication that wouldn’t usually happen.” science department, uses the DukeMobile student-produced content – and make New technologies like interactive webcasts applications on her iPhone to check the balance that content accessible and usable.” and anytime-anywhere mobile applications on her Duke Flexible Spending Account, find allow Duke to share knowledge with the world out the hours for campus eateries and check the — Tracy Futhey and enable faculty and staff to interact, learn latest Duke news while she’s waiting for a Duke’s Chief Information Officer and work in new ways – whether it’s meeting to start. participating in an employee forum without Her favorite feature? leaving the office or using a mobile device to “There’s no signage for a lot of buildings, so the help a campus visitor find a building. maps feature really helps,” Hodges said. “Once, when I was outside walking at “In focusing on mobility, online collaboration and the capture and lunchtime, a visitor to campus asked me where the physics building was. I storage of video content, we’ve put together a rich set of tools that can help could pull it up on the iPhone and show her from where we were standing.” all of us collaborate more efficiently,” said Tracy Futhey, Duke’s chief Other technologies reap benefits in terms of convenience and information officer. “One of the biggest issues we face is simply keeping efficiency, making it easier for faculty and staff to access information track of the new technologies that emerge every day and making thoughtful whenever and wherever they need it. decisions about how best to take advantage of the potential for sharing Shanta Anthony, a regulatory coordinator for Duke’s medical oncology information in a complex, constantly shifting environment.” clinical trials, had planned to attend the Primetime employee forum in September to learn about the effects of the economy on Duke. But she Convenience, Efficiency needed to care for her sick daughter at home and couldn’t attend. Because the forum was webcast live, she watched from home and asked a question As the pace of technology accelerates, Duke is at the forefront of through the Web. She was among 260 who watched online, more than the exploring new ways to share digital content. number of people who attended. Recognizing the importance of delivering information to an “There are a lot of people who work from home some days. Or you increasingly mobile campus, Duke deployed one of the most extensive may want to go but can’t pull yourself away from work,” Anthony said. campus-wide wireless networks in 2008. Building upon initiatives like the
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distribution of free iPods to first-year students and the launch of iTunes U >> See DIGITAL DUKE, PAGE 4 2009, 2008, 2007 Gold Medal, Internal Periodical Staff Writing 2009, 2007 Bronze Medal, Print Internal Audience Tabloids/Newsletters
This paper consists of 30% recycled post-consumer fiber. Please recycle after reading.
Editor’s Note LEANORA MINAI
Newsbriefs
Leanora.Minai@duke.edu
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s I write, I’m one day into Shape Up Duke and a few hundred steps shy of my first-day goal of 10,000 pedometer steps. I feel like I fit the bill for a seminar offered to Shape Up participants on Feb. 18: Fitting in Fitness: Exercise Options for Busy People. Looking for pointers in advance, I called Duke LIVE FOR LIFE, our employee wellness program and sponsor of the fitness challenge. I talked with Liz Grabosky, fitness program manager. How do I meet my fitness goals? Liz suggested scheduling fitness by writing “exercise” or the planned activity on your calendar. “One way to make regular physical activity a reality in your life is by choosing a time and sticking to it,” said Liz, adding that the most consistent exercisers workout in the morning. The benefit to an early workout is getting exercise out of the way for the day. The tradeoff: waking up earlier. Not for me. Another option is an evening workout, which may be more relaxing. As I contemplate scheduling, I also want to set realistic and healthy goals. The “Goal Setting Guide” on the Shape Up Duke website recommends a minimum of 75 minutes of vigorousintensity or 150 minutes of moderateintensity activity each week for an adult my age. I asked Liz for examples of moderate and vigorous exercise. Moderate intensity can be a brisk walk that noticeably increases the heart rate; vigorous activity can be running, which causes a substantial increase in heart rate. I plan to mix up my fitness schedule and activity.
Nominate coworkers for Presidential Awards
Cheaper rates for personal accident insurance
Nominations for the 2009 Presidential Awards, which recognize faculty and staff who made distinctive contributions at Duke during the past year, will be accepted through Feb. 19. This award is the highest award given to employees. Five winners each receive $1,000 and a custom Presidential Medallion. Up to twenty-five Meritorious Award winners each receive $100. For nomination forms, call (919) 684-9040 or visit hr.duke.edu/recognition/presidential.html.
Effective Jan. 1, 2010, rates for personal accident insurance for individual Duke employees and their families through Mutual of Omaha dropped 9 cents—from 27 cents to 18 cents per $10,000 worth of coverage. Family rates decreased from 47 cents to 30 cents per $10,000. Personal accident insurance is a voluntary benefit that employees can buy any time. It covers death, dismemberment or permanent total disability caused by an accident. Learn more at hr.duke.edu/benefits/life/accident.html.
Free help on income taxes Employees who earn less than $27,075 for a one-member household or less than $64,475 for a family of five can get free tax preparation services through Duke Law School’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA). Volunteers will take appointments at the Duke University Federal Credit Union in Erwin Square Plaza, 2200 West Main St., between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on these Fridays: Feb. 5, 12, 26; March 19, 26; and April 2, 9. To make an appointment, call (919) 684-6704. VITA will also host volunteer sessions by appointment at El Centro Hispano in Durham on certain Saturdays in February, March and April. VITA is one of Duke Law’s oldest pro-bono programs. In 2008, it completed more than 200 returns with more than $330,000 in refunds and more than $140,000 in tax credits. For the schedule and more information, visit law.duke.edu/student/act/vita.
Spring into shape with Duke Run/Walk Club LIVE FOR LIFE’s 2010 Spring Run/Walk Club starts March 8, offering faculty and staff extra motivation to exercise. The club runs 12 weeks, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday. Beginners meet at the East Campus track, across from Whole Foods on Broad Street. Walkers and advanced runners gather in front of Wallace Wade Stadium. “Running in a group is a wonderful social outlet,” said Patricia Loughlin, marketing assistant for Duke Athletics and a Run/Walk leader. “It’s also a great way to stay motivated.” To learn more or enroll, visit hr.duke.edu/runwalk.
Greening office supply purchases Duke has launched “Conserve Our Green,” a campaign to save money and make purchasing office supplies through Corporate Express (now Staples Advantage) more eco-friendly. Online EWay orders that exceed $50 will receive a 1.25 percent discount. Departments are encouraged to order supplies no more than once a week. For more, visit www.procurement.duke.edu.
letters to the Editor I really loved the feature “Free Fun at Duke.” I hope you continue to highlight more resources like this. Maybe favorite quiet places on campus, resources like borrowing DVDs, or art on campus. David Stein Senior Education Partnership Coordinator Office of Community Affairs Letters to the Editor must include name and contact information. E-mail letters to working@duke.edu or mail them to Working@Duke Editor, Box 90496, Durham, NC 27708. Fax letters to (919) 681-7926. Please keep length to no more than 200 words.
Get Started with Medco
Prescription mail order saves money
Follow these steps to order any long-term prescription from Medco. 1. Create an online account at medcohealth.com. 2. Select a preferred payment option. Prescriptions are not mailed until payment is arranged. 3. Ask your physician for a 90-day prescription and to send it to Medco. Not online? Send your prescription through the mail. Use the form at hr.duke.edu/forms/pharmacymail.html. Have a question? Medco pharmacists are on-call 24/7. (See your Medco member card for the number).
ary Driebeek can’t avoid medication. She regularly takes several drugs to cope with rheumatoid arthritis. But for the past four years, she has saved time, stress and money by using Medco mail order to have her medicines delivered directly home. Mail order is easy, said Driebeek, a physician assistant at Duke. When she visits her doctor, the order for her maintenance medicine prescriptions is sent directly to Medco. A Duke employee Mary Driebeek saves money and time by having prescription medicines mailed to her home. few days later, the medicines a time) can save money because the new $100 pharmacy arrive in her mailbox. deductible is waived for mail order. In addition, the co-pay “I love it,” she said. “I don’t have to hold on to a for one 90-day prescription is cheaper than the equivalent prescription. I don’t have to fax the prescription to Medco. co-pay at a retail pharmacy. I don’t have to wait 45 minutes in line at the pharmacy. It Driebeek said she saves at least $10 every three months is all done electronically.” Medco even sends Driebeek an e-mail when it’s time to when she orders through Medco. For instance, if she uses a generic medicine, Medco charges $20 for the 90-day buy more medicine. “I just log on to the Medco website generic prescription with free shipping. If she bought the with my password and confirm that I want to purchase more,” she said. “They have my prescription on record and generic medicine monthly at a retail pharmacy, she’d pay $30 for 90 days of medication. my health care reimbursement card on file, so it goes right “If someone gives me a method to save $10, that’s like through. It’s very slick, and it means I don’t have to plan being given a pizza on the weekend,” Driebeek said. any trips to the pharmacy.” “Thanks, I’ll take it.” Medco mail order is available to all employees covered by Duke medical insurance plans. — By Marsha A. Green By using Medco mail order, employees who use Senior Writer, Office of Communication Services maintenance medicines (those prescribed for 90 days at
DID YOU KNOW? Beginning March 1, pharmacies in Duke Clinic, Duke Raleigh Hospital and the Children’s Health Center will offer the same pricing on 90day prescriptions as Medco Mail Order but with walk-in service. The pharmacies will also waive the $100 deductible for these prescriptions, just like Medco. Learn more hr.duke.edu/pharmacy.
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2 Learn about Duke’s pharmacy benefit at hr.duke.edu/pharmacy.
Dean’s Dialogue: Advancing in Challenging Financial Times I
n March 2009, Provost Peter Lange charged the deans with reviewing their strategic plans. “Now, facing financial challenges and constraints in the face of a global recession,” Lange said, “we need to think again how best to advance our strategic ambitions.” These financial challenges look different within Duke’s schools and institutes, where revenue streams and expenses vary. Some schools, such as the Nicholas School of the Environment, rely more heavily on endowments and research funding, while other schools like Duke Law depend more on tuition as a primary revenue source. Working@Duke recently asked William L. Chameides, dean for the Nicholas School of the Environment, and David F. Levi, dean for Duke Law, how their schools are weathering the economic downturn, while advancing strategic priorities.
What is your school doing to balance its budget in this economic climate?
What is your school doing to balance its budget in this economic climate?
The Nicholas School is looking at the economic downturn as an opportunity to become more strategic; in terms of efficiency as well as building new revenue streams. Research: The world faces complex environmental problems. Despite the economic downturn, we can anticipate increased public and private funding to William L. Chameides study these problems and their remedies. While our faculty already is highly productive in research, we have developed a new strategic plan to be even more productive in the coming years. Undergraduate Education: The Marine Lab in Beaufort offers Duke undergraduates a unique opportunity to spend a semester at a world-class research facility on the Atlantic coast in a small class, experiential learning environment for studies in the natural and social sciences. We are committed to making the Marine Lab available to as many students as possible and toward that end, we have ramped up our campaign to let students know about the lab. New Programs: We are exploring how we can attract a more diverse population of American and international students through an expansion of existing programs and development of new academic programs. Outreach: Through an invigorated outreach program (e.g., the Duke LEAF award given to Robert Redford last year), we are raising the Nicholas School’s visibility and increasing our pool of friends and supporters. We are most grateful to those who have given us a great start to this year’s Annual Fund campaign.
We are, to the maximum extent possible, reducing administrative costs. We saved half a million dollars through cuts to less critical administrative services. We have been very careful about filling new positions on the administrative side. We asked everyone to be careful about travel and entertainment expenses, and people have responded to that request. David F. Levi As everyone knows, we have had a salary freeze – a sacrifice on the part of all our faculty and staff – and that generated a significant savings. As a result, we have not been forced to lay anyone off. On the revenue side, we have looked to our alumni to maintain or expand giving, despite the economic uncertainty. Giving is down, but thanks to the efforts of our annual fund team, we had a strong annual fund year last year and are off to a solid start this year as well. We also admitted a few more students to our LLM program, which generated some additional tuition income. Our JD class is also large, but that is mostly due to a surge in matriculations rather than a deliberate effort to raise tuition dollars; in fact, because overall scholarship awards are at a record high, the actual average cost of attending Duke Law went down this year.
How is your school advancing its strategic goals during these tough financial times?
We are focused on the two critical areas that make a law school great – faculty and students. We had a tremendous hiring year for faculty, and because some of our peer institutions are more financially pressed than we are, we think this is a time for Duke to make great hires. As to students, because of the commitment of our alumni to help later generations of students and because of the successful completion of the financial aid initiative, we have been in a position to provide more in scholarship aid than ever before. This helps us continue to attract some of the best students in the country to Duke.
Our aspiration to create knowledge and leaders of consequence for a sustainable future is fundamental to all that we do, and we have developed a new strategic plan to meet this goal despite the economic times. We will place greater emphasis on society’s most serious environmental problems; e.g., energy and climate, provisioning ecosystems and ocean resources, and environmental health, and to do so by stressing our strength – a multidisciplinary paradigm based on understanding the connections between the natural world and social and human institutions.
How will the financial crisis affect the environment field in the years to come? Despite the financial crisis, environmental programs will continue to thrive. Given current environmental problems, funding for environmental research and the need for environmental professionals and scientists should not wane. Indeed last year saw a significant uptick in applicants, and through proactive recruiting, we translated that applicant base into one of our best classes ever. A far greater concern is our resolve to steward the environment. Some believe that economic well-being and environmental stewardship are mutually exclusive and so, in times of economic stress, the environmental must be sacrificed. One of our jobs at the Nicholas School is to foster a better understanding of the role that the environment plays in supporting our economic and physical well-being.
How is your school advancing its strategic goals during these tough financial times?
How will the financial crisis affect the field of law in the years to come? The legal economy has been disrupted over the past year and will continue to be uncertain over the next year or two. This has had a significant impact on career planning for our students and alumni. It is unclear whether that disruption will accelerate existing trends or lead to something very different. As I look at things now, it is my best judgment that we will see relatively few long-term changes, and that what we may in fact be seeing is a return to a more normal legal economy, such as that which existed before the super-heated legal environment of the past five years or so. If that is the case, we can live with that and do well.
TELL US Working@Duke is seeking topics for future Dean’s Dialogue features. What would you like to hear about from one or more of Duke’s deans? Drop us a line at working@duke.edu or Working@Duke Box 90496. A small prize goes to the individual who submits a suggestion we publish.
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Digital Duke CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Duke has a good track record of being open to innovation, said Michael J. Schoenfeld, the university’s vice president for public affairs and government relations. “Before iTunes U and online office hours, the only way a Duke employee could experience the really exhilarating nature of our faculty was to go to class,” Schoenfeld said. “The more employees can see, hear and experience what goes on in the classroom, the more likely they are to feel connected to our academic mission and want to make the university better.”
‘A n t i d o t e t o Cubicle Madness’ The technological revolution has fundamentally altered the way people live and work, said Cathy Davidson, a Duke professor who studies digital learning. “These technologies allow lots of information to be exchanged between the maximum number of people with a Mark Anthony Neal, a Duke professor of African and African American Studies, prepares for a live webcast in August of Duke’s online "Office Hours” series. Thousands of viewers have tuned in to at least 18 different broadcasts. minimum amount of disruption to everybody’s life,” said Davidson, professor of “It’s great to be able to sit at your desk, just click a button – and you’re interdisciplinary studies and co-founder of HASTAC (the Humanities, there. It’s so easy.” Arts, Science, and Technology Advanced Collaboratory). “The tricky part is Ellen M. Ray, a business manager in the biomedical engineering that we have to relearn how and when to pay attention. We’re just department, appreciates being able to watch webcasts of Primetime and beginning to understand training programs at her convenience. that.” “With recorded webcasts, I can catch up after hours and not take a When she first These chunk out of my day,” Ray said. “If I’m not sure of something, I can just joined Duke in 1989, online replay it.” no one envisioned the Beginning last fall, Duke’s online “Office Hours” series – inspired by connections make possibility of entirely the casual conversations sparked when professors leave their doors open for virtual conferences such your world larger. students to wander in – invited the public to “join the conversation” about as those held by her You’re not just an current events and research at Duke. network. alienated person The broadcasts are noon on Fridays, accessible on Duke’s Ustream “We had channel: ustream.tv/dukeuniversity. at a desk. It’s the participants from Duke, Speckart, the staff specialist in Duke’s economics department, is among Germany, England, antidote to cubicle madness.” thousands of viewers who have tuned in to 18 “Office Hours” broadcasts Brazil, Costa Rica, — Cathy Davidson through December. Topics have ranged from race and medicine to the New Singapore, and no one Duke professor who studies digital learning Testament, the legacy of Michael Jackson and the state of Muslim left their desk,” Americans since Sept. 11, 2001. Davidson said. “With For Speckart, the sessions offer an opportunity to continue learning in the economy, everybody’s travel funds are limited. Instead of costing a setting that encourages interaction. “When you’re watching in a big hall thousands of dollars to fly everyone in, it cost maybe $1,000.” with 200 other people, you feel more inhibited about asking questions,” he Research suggests that digital technologies actually boost social said. “This feels more intimate.” interaction and workplace productivity, Davidson said.
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Duke’s Office of Information Technology established.
1997
Ethernet connections and cable TV to student residence halls completed.
1995
DukeNet, a campus-wide, high-speed, fiberoptic network, installed and tested in campus buildings, including Fuqua and the Engineering School.
1994
Construction begins on Duke University Cable Television Systems.
1994
Duke Dialogue reports that "Electronic Mail is growing in popularity on campus," now available for all staff.
1992
Tel-Com introduces pager service that lets users connect directly with a call rather than going through an operator; also announces a new computerized, remotely accessible voice-messaging system called voicemail.
1989
Duke Telecommunications building opens.
1989
USENET network created by two Duke graduate students and another at UNC. They wrote conferencing software linking the two institutions.
1987
Triangle Universities Computation Center formed as cooperative venture to provide mainframe computing services for Duke, N.C. State and UNCChapel Hill.
1979
Duke gets direct in-dialing, removing need for switchboard operators.
1972
Duke Telephone Service created; first phone directory.
1966
IBM 650 – one of IBM’s early computers – installed at Duke.
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Duke wins User Excellence Award from Network World in recognition of SWAT (Students With Access to Technology). Threequarters of 6,000 incoming students were connected to the network before school started.
Information Technology Advisory Council (ITAC) established “to support the academic mission of the University through appropriate use of information technology.” Members include faculty, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as IT representatives from various areas.
Digital Duke
DukeMobile (m.duke.edu) The DukeMobile suite of applications delivers information about Duke to multi-touch mobile devices like the iPhone and iPod touch, and to other devices that use wireless access points, such as the Blackberry. Users browse campus news and events, check campus maps and live sports scores, view digital materials from 20 library collections and access videos from iTunes U and YouTube.
Ustream (ustream.tv/dukeuniversity) Duke’s partnership with Ustream provides the university with a live interactive platform to highlight its faculty and events through streaming video, which Duke and the public can watch and share online. Tune in to Duke’s Ustream channel for “Office Hours” and “DukeReads.”
Celeste Hodges, a web developer in the computer science department, uses her iPhone to check Duke’s mobile maps feature on campus.
“These online connections make your world larger,” she said. “You’re not just an alienated person at a desk. It’s the antidote to cubicle madness.” With the pace of technological development, the challenge may be information overload, which is why Duke is exploring new ways to archive digital content. “We increasingly find ourselves in a digital arms race, rushing to make everything available in every way from anywhere,” said Futhey, Duke’s chief information officer. “But just because we can put everything online, are we better for having done it? We need to identify the content worth promoting – whether it’s research data, course learning material, student-produced content – and make that content accessible and usable.” Duke is exploring several new ways to do just that with platforms to showcase some of the university’s best videos and to bring together Facebook and Twitter feeds from organizations across campus. The university setting offers a unique opportunity to experiment with new technologies while still preserving traditional campus connections, said Schoenfeld, the vice president for public affairs and government relations. “If we just watch our first-year students, we’re always going to get a sneak preview of what’s coming next,” Schoenfeld said. “At the heart of it all is the campus experience. That’s what exciting about working at a university. We’ve been here forever, but we’re constantly changing.”
Primetime (hr.duke.edu/primetime) These quarterly forums provide a venue for staff and faculty to hear directly from senior administrators on significant issues and events at Duke. Recordings of the sessions are available online.
In the works A new “Duke On Demand” website will showcase some of the university’s best videos, similar to the popular Hulu service, which offers free online streaming video of TV shows and movies. Another site will bring together Twitter feeds and other social media offerings from organizations across campus.
— By Cara Bonnett Managing Editor, News & Information Office of Information Technology
2009
DukeMobile, a suite of new customized applications for mobile devices, allows users to browse campus events calendars, access campus maps, check live sports scores and view videos from iTunes U and YouTube.
Fall
As part of the Duke Digital Initiative, Duke offers several hundred digital camcorders to faculty and students who want to explore new uses of video in teaching and learning.
2009
Duke announces plans to convert all phone service on the main campus, including the health system, to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Spring
2009 February
2008
Duke launches its own YouTube channel.
Fall
2008
The Link, a new teaching and learning center designed to link technology services with innovative teaching spaces and learning tools, opens in Perkins Library.
2008
Duke works with Apple to launch its own iTunes U space, enabling students to access digital course materials, set up course podcasts and exchange multimedia content.
April
2008 February
Duke begins a project to expand wireless coverage to the entire main campuses, including 29 residence halls. Covering more than 6 million square feet, Duke’s deployment will create the largest hot spot to date.
May
Duke launches Duke Today as daily online publication for news about the Duke community.
2007
Duke establishes its first online website.
2004
Duke’s Center for Instructional Technology founded.
Duke distributes about 1,600 iPods to freshmen to encourage creative uses of technology in education and campus life, as part of the Duke Digital Initiative.
2006
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An “online office hours” series enables the public to interact with leading Duke professors as part of the university’s latest initiative to use new media to share its research and knowledge with the world.
Start 2010 with two free nutrition consults L
eslie Melby exercises, eats right and has no major health problems. But she cares enough about her health to meet with a registered dietitian through LIVE FOR LIFE, Duke’s employee health promotion program. “I had a free session last year, and I got great tips on eating healthy,” she said. “But I’ve reached a roadblock with regard to weight loss. I just can’t seem to lose the last five pounds.” Take small portions when Like all benefits-eligible Duke colleagues share treats. employees, Melby, an administrative We get the most pleasure fellow with Ambulatory Care Services, from the first few bites is eligible for two hour-long nutrition of rich food. consultations each year at no charge. Choose low-calorie drinks To make an appointment, faculty and like hot tea rather than staff may call (919) 684-3136. soda. Kelly Velotta, nutrition manager Stash healthy snacks for LIVE FOR LIFE, said employees (nuts and dried fruits) visit with a variety of questions from in your desk. how to lower their blood pressure to how to spice up a bland diet. But the most common concern, she said, is how to lose weight. “We help people understand what and In addition to the two free consultations, why they are eating, Duke’s medical insurance plans cover up to six nutrition consults. Co-payments and work with them to are $15 to 20 per visit. set two or three goals
Cut back on office snacking
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DID YOU KNOW?
they are confident they can reach,” Velotta said. Melby’s consultation started with a registered dietitian asking about her usual breakfast; whether she gets her salad dressing on the side; what vegetables she ate for dinner the night before and whether she snacks before bed. Melby posed questions to the dietitian, too. “I hate skim milk, is it okay just to wean myself down to 1 percent?” Yes, said Susan Johnson, the registered dietitian. “Are sweet potatoes better than regular potatoes?” Not better, Johnson replied, just different in vitamins and fiber. After determining that Melby’s diet was fairly healthy, the conversation quickly moved to goalsetting around weight loss. “I used to munch in the evening, but I’ve gotten over that,” Melby said. “Now the temptation is snacking in the office.” A quick review of possible solutions included packing healthy snacks from home with extra protein such as cheese or peanut butter to help her feel more full.
Duke employee Leslie Melby, right, learns how to adjust her diet for better health during a free LIVE FOR LIFE nutrition consult with Susan Johnson, a registered dietitian.
“It was good to get affirmation that I was on the right track, and just needed to make small tweaks,” Melby said. She now brings yogurt, apples and cheese to eat at the office. “I’m staying fuller longer now that I am eating more protein, and that makes it easier to stick to my calorie limit,” she said. Melby plans to experiment with her new habits for a few months and return for her second consult. “I love that Duke offers these consults as a free benefit,” she said. “I think everyone should take advantage of them. What have you got to lose?” — By Marsha A. Green Senior Writer, Office of Communication Services
For all LIVE FOR LIFE benefits, visit hr.duke.edu/liveforlife
Help a co-worker, learn a language hile teaching English in Japan from 2001 to 2003, Annette Lindsay picked up enough Japanese to hold conversations. After returning to the United States, she had a hard time keeping the foreign language up to par. So last year, she turned to a unique Duke program. Lindsay, an advisor in Duke’s Visa Services office, is one of more than 150 people who work with other Duke students and employees to learn another language through the International House’s Language Partners Program. “The world is becoming a smaller place and it’s definitely important to learn how to interact and communicate with people from other cultures,” Lindsay said. “It’s an ideal way to grow individually and professionally.” The 20-year-old program, open at no charge to Duke students, faculty and staff, covers a variety of languages from French to Chinese to Urdu, which is spoken in Pakistan and India. Language Partners takes participants who want to learn a language and matches them with a partner who wants to improve their skills at their partner’s language. Last year, Lindsay began meeting with the spouse of a Japanese graduate student. They met once a week for an hour or two, splitting time between working on Lindsay’s Japanese and her partner’s English. They worked on exercises to improve conversational language and brought in pictures to describe them in English and Japanese. “It was nice to form that friendship and help them,” Lindsay said. “I think I was also able to help my partner adjust to life in Durham and American culture and make her feel more at home.” Lindsay said she joined the program because she thought it would be fun and rewarding to help someone learn English. Lindsay said it was important to learn about other cultures and languages to help with her job in the Visa Services office, where she interacts with international students daily.
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Want to sign up? • Go to ihouse.studentaffairs. duke.edu/programs and select the “Duke Language Partners” link. • Fill out the online form. • The program will work to find a partner with a matching language request. • International House will contact partners once they’ve been paired.
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Annette Lindsay, left, an international student and scholar advisor with Duke Visa Services, visits Brightleaf Square with former Language Partner Yumiko Oshita, center, and current language partner, Mari Moritani, right, both of whom are spouses of Duke graduate students.
To take part in the program, participants complete an online form and explain what language they want to learn and what they can teach. The International House then assigns partners. The program lasts for the duration of Duke’s academic year. Yoko Hisano, program coordinator with the International House, said participants need to express a genuine interest in learning a new language. Pairs create their own lesson plans to teach each other and are expected to meet at least once a week. “It’s a great way to expand your horizons,” Hisano said. “If someone wants to learn something new, this is the best way to do it. It also doesn’t cost anything, while a language class or computer program would.” — By Bryan Roth Writer, Office of Communication Services
ihouse.studentaffairs.duke.edu
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Grassroots Green: reducing our emissions from the ground up n announcing Duke’s plan to become climate neutral by 2024, President Richard Brodhead called on Duke community members. “The reductions require that we make smarter choices about energy use, transportation and other facts of daily life,” he said. “We must challenge ourselves to be more thoughtful about our habits and imaginative about needed changes.” The university produces about 300,000 metric tons of carbon emissions annually. While significant reductions will be achieved through institutional changes like converting from coal to natural gas, a large percentage will fall to the decisions and behaviors of people who work, study and live at Duke.
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5 ways you can make a difference at Duke the pledge. 1StartTakeby making a commitment.
Turn it off. 3Electricity is the largest
Add your name to the Sustainable Duke Pledge, which states, in part: “I will consider the environmental, social and economic impact of my daily decisions and make every effort to reduce my ecological footprint.” Kristi Viles, who holds a doctorate and is a research analyst in the Division of Surgical Sciences, is among more than 3,300 employees and students who have pledged. “My husband and I carpool to Duke together, we stay on campus for lunch, we use the stairs instead of the elevator,” she said. “I even bring materials home that I can’t recycle here at work.” Pledge now at duke.edu/sustainability
portion of Duke’s overall greenhouse gas emissions. While Duke is implementing institutional changes like creating more energy efficient buildings, help do your part by turning off equipment and lights when not in use. “The meters are still churning at night because lights, computers and office equipment are left on when many offices are closed,” Capps said. “Turning off a light when you leave a room may seem small, but if you add up collective electricity used, you would see a significant difference.”
In. 2DoWeigh you know how much carbon you produce at Duke? Learn by using the Duke Carbon Calculator to see how much carbon you emit while eating, traveling, working or living on campus. Individuals receive a “Carbon Report Card” that includes overall emission results and a breakdown by category. “Once people see their overall emissions, we offer them specific tips and suggestions about how they can start their carbon diet and reduce their footprint at Duke,” said Tavey Capps, Duke’s environmental sustainability program director.
Carbon Calculator Crunch your numbers at duke.edu/ sustainability/calculator
Share a ride. 4Commuting miles by employees represents the largest single component of Duke’s transportation emissions. The primary reason: 72 percent of Duke’s employees drive alone to work, according to a recent Triangle Transit survey. “One of the biggest impacts employees can make to reduce carbon emissions is sharing a ride with a co-worker,” Capps said.
Duke offers carpool and vanpool incentives, as well as discount city and regional bus passes at a savings of up to 60 percent. Learn more at parking.duke.edu and select “alternative transportation.”
Give it a second chance. 5Duke sends more than 10,000 tons of waste to the landfill annually. Efforts to reduce, reuse and recycle are making a difference. While the university has grown the last two years, trash disposal has not, recycling has increased 11 percent. But more is needed. Start by reducing your waste–avoid items that are disposable or heavily packaged. Reuse items when possible or donate them to others. If you have to dispose of something, recycle any components you can like aluminum, paper, cardboard and plastics numbered 1–7. Learn what and where you can recycle at duke.edu/sustainability/campus_initiatives/waste — By Paul Grantham Assistant Vice President Office of Communication Services
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Stay informed about sustainablility at duke.edu/sustainability
D U K E
WORKING@ DUKE
dialogue@Duke
HOW TO REACH US Editor: Leanora Minai (919) 681-4533
“With Valentine’s Day this month, where do you think is the most romantic spot at Duke?”
leanora.minai@duke.edu Assistant Vice President: Paul S. Grantham
“
(919) 681-4534
My husband and I got engaged in the Duke Gardens in May 2002 when he proposed in the bamboo garden. There’s a small path that leads to a big rock, and he proposed on the rock. We also got married at the Duke Chapel. To me, there’s all sorts of romantic places.”
paul.grantham@duke.edu Graphic Design & Layout:
Elizabeth Gill International Career Advisor and Internship Coordinator, Sanford School of Public Policy 8 years at Duke
Paul Figuerado Photography: Bryan Roth and Marsha Green, Office of Communication Services, and Duke University Photography.
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I’d say the Duke Gardens because of all the colors you see there between the trees and flowers. You’re among so many wonderful things that have been put in our view there. It’s easily the most romantic spot I’ve seen since I started at Duke.”
Working@Duke is published monthly by Duke’s Office of Communication Services. We invite your feedback and suggestions for
Larry Dunkins Lead recycler, Duke Recycles 7 years at Duke
future story topics. Please write us at
Got a story idea? Write
working@duke.edu or
Working@Duke, Box 90496,
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I think it’s the Duke Coffee House on East Campus. It’s a great place to grab a cup of coffee during the week and there’s music there at night too, so you have to get pretty close to someone to talk. It’s a pretty intimate atmosphere with good lighting too.”
705 Broad St., Durham, NC 27708 Call us at (919) 684-4345. Send faxes to (919) 681-7926.
working@duke.edu or Call
681-4533
Andrea Marston Research service-learning coordinator, Hart Leadership Program 8 months at Duke — By Bryan Roth Writer, Office of Communication Services
PERQS
Join the Facebook fan page for Working@Duke at facebook.com/workingatduke
E M P LOY E E D I S CO U N TS
Surprise your sweetheart, savor the savings
C
elebrate Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14 with a gift that will lift your loved one’s spirits – and save you money through PERQs, Duke’s employee discount program.
Be a good sport
Delegate!
Treat the sports fan in your life to a daily dose of team spirit. Football Fanatics offers a 10 percent discount on all items ordered online. Described as “the ultimate team superstore,” Football Fanatics offers everything from T-shirts to toothbrushes – and not just for football fans. Select memorabilia from college teams, national leagues, world soccer and even the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. Visit hr.duke.edu/discounts and select “Clothing & Shoes” to find the link to Football Fanatics and the Duke discount code, then shop at footballfanatics.com.
A touching gift The bodywork team at Duke Integrative Medicine offers many types of massage, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports and pregnancy/postpartum. With a 20 percent discount on therapeutic services, prices start at $40 for 25 minutes. Visit dukeintegrativemedicine.org.
For a full list of PERQS discounts, visit
hr.duke.edu/discounts
Beautiful, bountiful beads Duke’s oldest and largest full-service bead shop is heaven for someone who adores jewelry. The Bead Room offers a 10 percent discount on gemstones, glass beads and jewelry-making classes. Check out the options at beadroom.biz
D U K E T O D AY
Help your special someone clean up with a gift card from A-1 Busy Bodies Maid Service. From routine dusting, vacuuming and window cleaning to organizing the closet or shining silver, a threeperson team can take a messy room and clean it up. With a 10 percent PERQS discount, cost is $81 per hour. Call (919) 383-5854 for details.
Show off your good taste You don’t have to travel far to get a taste of Italy. Maggiano’s Little Italy on Renaissance Parkway in The Streets at Southpoint offers Duke employees a 10 percent discount Monday through Thursday. Take a peek at the menu at maggianos.com.
Bed and breakfast at Duke Check into the R. David Thomas Executive Conference Center on campus for a relaxing night away. Duke employees get comfortable accommodations, access to all guest lounges and amenities and a breakfast buffet, all for $99 (discounted from $150). For more information, e-mail reservations@fuqua.duke.edu.
— Compiled by Marsha A. Green, Senior Writer, Office of Communication Services
For daily news and information, visit duke.edu/today