BSA Young Trustee endorsement

The Black Student Alliance Executive Board convened Sunday January 25th and Sunday February 1st to interview the Young Trustee Finalists.

After extensive discussions and debates amongst the board, it was clear that each candidate possessed standout qualities that would make him or her successful in the role of young trustee.

Anna Knight demonstrated strong knowledge of university policy, specifically as it relates to undergraduate research opportunities and a more affordable Duke. We were happy to learn that she would be easily accessible if elected to the position.

Nikolai Doytchinov had the greatest abundance of university knowledge and eloquently outlined the greatest policy issues the university would face moving forward, as well as the policies in the past that have had enormous impact on the university. We were impressed by his work in DSG and his ability to clearly articulate his goals for the role of young trustee.

David Robertson earned BSA’s endorsement by not only demonstrating a strong understanding of current university policy, but by also conveying a clear case for his vision of the university’s direction. The executive board valued his keen understanding of student life, particularly as it relates to race relations, culture, and socio economic diversity. Additionally, David was able to cite specific students narratives of the impacts of large issues in university policy. The executive board felt this was a critical connection to be made at the board level for trustees. Further, his wide range of involvement on campus gave us great confidence that he would best represent a diversity of student perspectives. The Black Student Alliance is thrilled to entrust and endorse David Robertson to reimagine a better Duke for students of all backgrounds as we move forward in the future.

Jamal Edwards

T'16