Duke University Names Christopher Roby New Director of Student Life

Christopher J. Roby has been named director of student life at Duke University.

Roby, whose Duke appointment begins July 1, is currently director of the Oglesby Student Union at Florida State University.

"I could tell during my on-campus interview that Duke is an amazing place with a genuine commitment to student growth both inside and outside the classroom," Roby said.

The director of student life is a member of the Office of Student Activities and Facilities (OSAF), which serves as the foundation for student programming, leadership exploration and facility operations for student life. OSAF, part of Duke's Division of Student Affairs, provides services, support and opportunities for students to engage in co-curricular experiences.

At Florida State, Roby oversees a number of facilities and 12 departments comprising 59 full-time employees and 180 student employees. He also has overseen strategic planning for facility renovations and new construction of several buildings dedicated to student programming and services. He oversees a $5.8 million budget.

"He brings a wealth of knowledge and years of experience in personnel, fiscal, facilities renovation and program management," said Zoila Airall, Duke's assistant vice president for campus life. "He is innovative, loves students and thinks strategically."

Previously, Roby was director of student activities and leadership programs at the University of Miami and assistant dean of students at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Fla. Roby also served as director of campus activities and director of freshman programs and volunteer services at Eckerd.

He has a bachelor's degree in political science from Eckerd College and a master's of science in management from National-Louis University.