Director, DKU Student Engagement
Irina Adams is Director of DKU Student Engagement, working on academic, co-curricular and student life facets of study at Duke for DKU students, and managing other projects to advance the mission of the office. Irina coordinates across Duke and DKU to develop and implement student services and programs, and is the primary advisor to DKU students while at Duke. Irina also serves as advisor to the student group KSAC (Kunshan Student Ambassador Council), which fosters dialogue and serves as peer network for Duke-DKU students, as well as a college advisor to Duke students prior to major declaration. As Program Manager in the office between 2016-2019, Irina oversaw planning and execution of student and faculty programs and events, supported the work of the China Faculty Council, and managed communications.
Previously, Irina served for six years as an Assistant Director for Programs at DukeEngage, where she worked on planning and administration of civic engagement opportunities for Duke students in the U.S. and abroad. She managed a portfolio of 20 faculty and provider-led programs and directed independent projects, advising students on project design, managing admissions, and supporting students in the field. Irina has also worked in the administration of global health programs, high school exchange, as well as in marketing and communications. Irina holds a Master's in International Education from the School for International Training and undergraduate degrees in Chinese and Romanian from the University of Bucharest. She studied at Zhongshan University in Guangzhou, China, for two years as an undergraduate student. Irina is interested in student development and identity, in particular in relation to study abroad.