Duke University has recently issued several statements addressing various issues affecting its community and public
Controversy Over ‘The White Lotus’ Portrayal
Duke University expressed disapproval regarding its portrayal in HBO’s The White Lotus. In the series, actor Jason Isaacs’s character, Timothy Ratliff, is depicted wearing a Duke University T-shirt during a suicide-themed scene.
The university criticized the use of its logo without permission, stating it misrepresents the institution and associates it with troubling imagery.
Frank Tramble, Duke’s Vice President for Communications, emphasized that the portrayal undermines the university’s values, particularly concerning mental health awareness. Despite this, legal experts noted that artistic use of trademarks is often protected under the First Amendment.
Statement on Open Expression
Duke University reaffirmed its commitment to free expression with a statement emphasizing the importance of unfettered debate and deliberation.
The university acknowledged that some events or expressions may be misunderstood as representing Duke’s position but asserted that it will not suppress discourse.
The statement highlighted the responsibility to foster scholarly discourse and ensure ideas are tested, challenged, and debated in a way that advances knowledge.
. Investigation into Noose Incident
Duke University condemned an incident where a noose was found hanging from a tree on its campus.
The university’s Vice President for Student Affairs, Larry Moneta, described the act as hateful and emphasized that it does not reflect the institution’s values.
President Richard Brodhead addressed the community, stating that the presence of the noose was rejected by the multitude of individuals who gathered to denounce it. The university initiated an investigation into the incident.
$100 Million Gift to Expand Education Access
Duke University announced a historic $100 million gift from the Duke Endowment to support scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
The donation aims to enhance the university’s mission of building a more diverse student body, with a particular focus on students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The funds will also support Duke’s new financial aid program, which offers free tuition for students from families earning less than $150,000 annually.
Additionally, the gift will be used to update the Wilhelmina Reuben-Cooke Building, named after one of the first Black students to attend the university.
