Marketing & Communications Fellow

Duke University:

 

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.

Social Media Strategy & Engagement (25%)

• 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.

Brand Messaging & Outreach (20%)

• 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.

Graphic Design & Promotional Materials (15%)

• 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.

Administrative & Community Support (10%)

• 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.

 

Choose Duke.

 

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.

Experience

• None required beyond education

 

Additional Skills

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 wi