Duke hosts Distinguised Humphrey Fellows for program on human rights and social justice

The Duke Center for International Development and Sanford School of Public Policy welcomed a cohort of Distinguished Humphrey Fellows for an intensive two-week program focused on human rights and social justice. 

The cohort, comprised of 20 accomplished professionals from six continents, are focused on tackling issues ranging from migrant and indigenous rights to disability access and advocacy. Through the Distinguished Humphrey Fellowship Program, a Fulbright exchange activity funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute of International Education, Fellows are provided executive and leadership development opportunities to help them advance their professional work and build international relationships. 

During their time on campus, Fellows engaged in classes led by Duke faculty on topics such as human rights law, budgeting for rights-based initiatives, and transformative dialogue. Given Duke’s location in the southern U.S., the group also visited several sites connected to the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, exploring its enduring impact on contemporary justice work.

Following their academic immersion, Fellows spent time at human rights and social justice organizations throughout the country. These placements offered hands-on experience with innovative programming and advocacy models. Host organizations included:

• Office of Navajo Government Development
• Washington Parks & People
• Southern Poverty Law Center
• Neighborhood Empowerment Network
• Tahirih Justice Center
• Harvard FXB Center for Health & Human Rights
• State of Illinois Executive Ethics Commission
• N.C. Human Trafficking Commission
• Access Living
• The Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES)
• MDC, Inc.
• Team Harmony
• Amnesty International

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The program concluded at the Duke in DC office, where Fellows met with policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and U.S. Department of State officials to share insights and strengthen international partnerships.

Catherine Admay, senior lecturer in public policy, and Matt Bunyi, director of executive education and strategic initiatives, served as the Duke faculty director and program director, respectively.