Accepting Nominations for New Career Development Program

TO:  Vice Presidents, Vice Provosts, Deans, Directors, Department Heads, and Managers
FROM:  Kyle Cavanaugh, Vice President of Administration
RE:  Accepting Nominations for New Career Development Program

Based on feedback from managers and supervisors across the University and Health System, Learning and Organization Development has redesigned Duke Human Resources’ approach to career-development programs and is introducing the Professional Development Academy with a Foundational Skills program designed to prepare entry-level staff in service jobs for roles in administrative support.

The 37-week program helps participants develop the office knowledge and skills to qualify for advancement within Duke, while working full-time. In addition to instructor-led classroom training, the program includes 60 hours of job shadowing and 90 hours of on-the-job training. The program is open to staff currently in service jobs at levels 2 through 5 in the university and levels B1 and B2 in the health system.

Supervisors must nominate staff members in good standing to participate in the program, and staff must complete an application for consideration. A review committee will review all applications and select 15 staff members to participate in the first class, which will begin in June. Supervisor nominations, located on the Foundational Skills webpage, are due by 5 p.m. on April 6.

Participant applications are due by 5 p.m. on April 20. To apply, staff must have at least three years of continuous service at Duke, a high school diploma or GED, successful performance reviews at the level of “exceeds expectations” or “exceptional,” a letter of recommendation from their current manager and a letter of recommendation from a peer or former supervisor. Please share this opportunity with those in your department who are eligible and encourage them to apply.

This program reflects our commitment at Duke to develop our own talent to fill the needs in the organization and provide the skills, support and resources to help staff members grow and advance.

If you have questions about the program or about participation by a member of your staff, please call Gina Rogers, Learning and Organization Development Consultant, at 919-613-2161 or visit the Foundational Skills webpage. Thank you.