Since May 2016, Linda Jackson has served as a Staff Assistant supporting several faculty members in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences (HNS&CS), playing a vital role in the department’s daily operations. Last year, she was one of nine staff and administrative assistants from the School of Medicine selected to participate in the inaugural Duke Administrative Career Advancement Program (DACAP) through completing the Certified Executive Assistant Professional (CEAP) development program.
The CEAP program is a collaboration between the School of Medicine and Duke Learning & Organization Development, a unit within Duke Human Resources. Designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and leadership skills among administrative professionals, the program includes eight courses, culminating in a nationally recognized certification. It combines it with mentorship and hands-on experience working alongside senior colleagues.
On June 10, Linda and her fellow CEAP participants gathered to celebrate the completion of the program and receive their certificates. Reflecting on the experience, she shared: “Attending class will help me excel in my current role and achieve my career growth. I am thankful for this opportunity.” Linda completed the program under the mentorship of Brooke Taylor, Special Assistant in the Division of Medical Oncology.
The Duke Administrative Career Advancement Program was originally envisioned by Pam Keels, Administrative Director in the Department of Medicine, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program was developed to create meaningful career advancement opportunities for staff and gained strong support from the Moments to Movement Staff Advisory Committee, the Department of Surgery’s SEEDS professional development workgroup, the Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, and the Department of Emergency Medicine.
Congratulations, Linda!