Nara Strickland

This accomplished higher education leader and student success professional brings nearly three decades of experience in education, academic advising, student development, and program administration. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting student achievement, expanding educational opportunities, and creating transformative learning experiences for students from diverse backgrounds.

Currently serving within Duke University's Trinity College Undergraduate Education Office, she previously held the role of Interim Director of Duke Pre-College and advanced through multiple leadership positions within Duke University’s Pre-College Programs. Her progression from Program Coordinator to Associate Director, Senior Associate Director, and Interim Director reflects her expertise in strategic program development, academic operations, student engagement, and educational leadership. She has overseen pre-college and summer programs, managed cross-functional teams, developed innovative educational initiatives, and worked closely with students, families, faculty, and university stakeholders to enhance student experiences and program outcomes.

Earlier in her career, she served as an Academic Advisor and International Programs Coordinator at Duke University, where she guided undergraduate and visiting students through academic planning, personal development, and university engagement. Her extensive experience includes student advising, program management, international education, residential life administration, and leadership development.

Before joining Duke, she spent several years in student support services and teaching roles, providing academic, social, emotional, and college readiness support to middle and high school students. She was instrumental in developing college access initiatives, organizing educational programs, coordinating student events, and fostering partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations.

Her educational career began with more than 18 years as a classroom teacher in North Carolina public schools, where she earned numerous recognitions for teaching excellence, leadership, and student advocacy. Throughout her teaching and administrative career, she has been recognized for her dedication to educational equity, student success, community engagement, and professional excellence.

With expertise spanning academic advising, student affairs, pre-college programming, leadership development, educational program management, and student support services, she continues to make a lasting impact on students, educators, and institutions through her commitment to learning, mentorship, and educational innovation.