The Rubenstein Fellows Program honors the leadership and service of exceptional sophomores and juniors in the DukeLIFE community. Named after David M. Rubenstein--a philanthropist, Duke alumnus, and the first in his family to attend college--the program reflects his belief in the power of education. Rubenstein graduated from Duke in 1970 and has dedicated much of his life to expanding opportunity for others.
Each year, the DukeLIFE office selects five fellows who exemplify strong leadership potential, reliability, and commitment to contributing to the DukeLIFE community.
Over the course of the fellowship year, Rubenstein Fellows engage in a series of workshops and conversations with alumni, faculty, campus partners and one another. These experiences are designed to deepen their leadership skills, expand their networks, and strengthen their impact within the DukeLIFE community. The year concludes with a reflective exercise that supports fellows in setting intentional goals for their continued growth and leadership journey.
A fair question might be: Why should anyone really want to be a leader?
First, a leader can create the type of change or results that will improve the lives of others. Second, a leader can motivate others to become leaders, and in turn improve others’ lives. And third, a leader can feel a sense of accomplishment and achievement that provides human fulfillment and happiness.
David M. Rubenstein, How to Lead (2020)
2024-2025 Fellows
Rosemina Ayieko, P'27
Jocelyn May, T'27
Gabriela Mendoza, T'27
Luis Pereira-Lazo, T'27
Nolan Zeng, P'27