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Lost in the Music

Felicia Tittle finds solace in her music

Felicia the percussionist_V.jpg
Felicia Tittle said she's been a percussionist "all my life" and dreams of one day being a professional musician. Photo courtesy of Felicia Tittle.

Name: Felicia TittlePosition: Executive director, Recreation and Physical EducationYears at Duke: 4

What I do at Duke: I oversee Recreation and Physical Education which includes Wilson and Brodie Recreation Centers, aquatics, outdoor adventures, sports clubs, intramurals, group fitness classes, personal training and all the recreational classes and academic components within Recreation and Physical Education. It consists of working with staff on programs for the university community, budgeting, strategic planning, and problem solving.

If I had $5 million, I would: Split half with my mom so she would not have any financial concerns. She has been so supportive of me and a rock in my life, so it is the least I could do. I would also do a lot of community service with programs that give people the opportunity to become work-ready. I would like to see additional programs to assist people with finding jobs.

My first ever job: I worked at Wayne County Public Library in Goldsboro during high school. I checked in books and made sure the book shelves were in order. I worked there for about three months because it was awful. I have to stay mentally and physically active and it was not challenging at all for me. My second job was at Kentucky Fried Chicken as a cashier, and it was much more active to say the least.

My dream job: I would like to be a traveling musician. I have been a percussionist all my life and one of my dreams is to be a traveling musician. I moved to North Carolina when I was in high school, and became my high school drum major and was offered a scholarship in music to Winston-Salem State. When I play, I am in a whole different space. I don't have a care in the world.

If someone wanted to start a conversation with me they should ask me about: The jazz musician, Charlie Parker. I like his music - it's relaxing to me. There is something about him that is inspirational and somewhat melancholy. I have a deep appreciation for his music.

What I love about Duke: The people. I have never worked in a place where people are genuinely good people.

When I'm not at work, I like to: Meditate. There is a TV channel called Soundscapes on cable that is relaxing. I enjoy being quiet and having time to be in my own space. It creates balance and relaxation. I also started taking hot yoga.

If I could have one superpower, it would be: To change the heart of man. If I could make the world a better place, I would. Many times that's where it starts - in your heart.

Something most people don't know about me: I completed Army basic training through my college's ROTC program. That experience allowed me to discover my true physical and mental limitations.

A Movie I like: I am a big Adam Sandler fan, so anything by him. I like to laugh and anything he makes is usually at the top of my list.