The Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences (HNS&CS) at Duke University is proud to announce its significant achievements in creating collaborative community health partnerships, fostering community education, providing community service, and building a diverse pipeline to careers in the field. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the department has been instrumental in positively impacting the lives of individuals and families in our community though four initiatives:
- Creating Collaborative Community Health Partnerships
The Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences has been at the forefront of providing hearing health education and screenings to the community, with a specific focus on older adults. In collaboration with institutions such as the Duke Hearing Center, UNC, BEGINNINGS for Parents of Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Med-El, and a local parent advocate, the department has developed a program that offers Spanish-speaking parents of children with hearing loss a platform to learn and connect with each other during quarterly meetings. This initiative aims to provide vital support and resources to these families, enabling them to navigate their journey effectively.
- Fostering Community Education
The department actively engages in community education through various events and programs. Notable initiatives include World Voice Day, Walk for Hearing, Duke HEARS (Honor, Educate, Advocate, Relate, Support) Workshop, and more. These events serve as opportunities to raise awareness, educate the public, and foster a sense of community among individuals affected by hearing and communication-related challenges. By promoting dialogue and sharing knowledge, the department aims to empower individuals to take control of their hearing health.
- Providing Community Service
The Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences is dedicated to giving back to the populations it serves. Through a partnership with Activate Good, a local nonprofit organization, the department actively participates in community service events throughout the year. Since September of 2020, the department has successfully completed 15 service projects, benefiting ten worthy causes in the Triangle area. With the invaluable support of 101 volunteers, a total of 277 volunteer hours have been dedicated to making a positive impact in our community.
4. Creating a Diverse Pipeline to Careers
The HNS&CS department recognizes the importance of building a diverse pipeline to careers in Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences. To achieve this goal, the department has partnered with the BOOST Program (Building Opportunities and Overtures in Science and Technology). Through this partnership, faculty, residents, and staff provide educational content for the Duke BOOST curriculum, including educational videos and presentations at Science Saturday events. Together with Duke BOOST, HNS&CS is creating opportunities for communities that are underrepresented in the professional sciences and students from economically challenged backgrounds. Additionally, the department actively participates in the Mary Ann Black Summer Internship and in Duke FEMMES+ (Females and Allies Excelling More in Math, Engineering, and Science).
The Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences remains committed to its mission of serving the community, fostering education, and advancing careers in the field. By creating collaborative partnerships, engaging in community education and service, and building a diverse pipeline, the department strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families.