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Five Free, Fun Things at Duke in May

Commencement, free outdoor movie highlight month’s events 

Duke community members can take advantage of the Central Campus pool as weather gets warm. Photo courtesy of Duke Recreation.
Duke community members can take advantage of the Central Campus pool as weather gets warm. Photo courtesy of Duke Recreation.

The end of the academic year doesn’t mean campus won’t offer free and fun things to do in May. 

This month, Duke community members can practice creative writing, cheer on newly minted graduates and relax with family for a outdoor movie as part of Duke Appreciation. If the 70 and 80 degree heat gets to you, grab a towel and take a dip in the pool on Central Campus. 

Here are five ways to enjoy this month around the Duke campus and in Durham. 

Friday, May 8 – ‘Write for You’ journaling

No matter the level of experience, all Duke community members are welcome at this monthly journaling workshop that encourages participants to write in all styles and forms to help express emotions and thoughts, reduce anxiety and promote creativity. In addition to receiving free guidance on journaling practices, supplies are provided. The group meets from 11 to 11:45 a.m. in the 0 level conference room of the Duke Cancer Center. For more information, call (919) 613-6601. 

Sunday, May 10 – Conclude the academic year at commencement

Few events bring the campus community together like commencement, which features faculty, staff, students and thousands of guests. This year, the event will be held at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park in downtown Durham at the American Tobacco Campus. Procession will start at 9 a.m. with the ceremony at 9:30 a.m.

In addition to speeches from President Richard H. Brodhead and students, visitors will hear from Paul Farmer '82, co-founder of Partners In Health, which provides direct health care services, undertakes research and advocates on behalf of people who are sick and living in poverty. Today, PIH has 12 sites throughout Haiti, and works in 12 other countries. 

Gates at the park open at 7 a.m.; the ceremony will conclude by approximately 11 a.m.

Friday, May 15 – Breakfast with bicyclists

Even if you don’t ride to campus every day, all students and employees are invited to a special breakfast to mark Bike to Work Day with Sustainable Duke and Parking and Transportation Services. From 8 to 10 a.m. on the Bryan Center Plaza enjoy a complimentary breakfast and prize giveaways while meeting bicyclists and learn about Duke's Bicycle Commuter Benefits program.

If you’re curious about the best ways to bike at Duke, come back to campus at 1 p.m. May 16 for a basic bike commuter course to hear about bike maintenance, state bike laws and a riding campus tour. For details and RSVP information see the event page

Friday, May 15 – Movie night with the family

Faculty, staff and their friends and families are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets to a free outdoor screening of Disney’s “Big Hero 6” as part of Duke Appreciation. The PG-rated movie follows the story of Baymax, a personal companion robot who forms a special bond with robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada. 

The screening will be on the East Campus Lawn at 8 p.m. Free hot dogs, popcorn and drinks will be provided while supplies last. A valid DukeCard ID is required. Rain date is May 22.

All Month and through the summer – Cool off at the pool

As temperatures rise this month, students, employees and their family members have an easy way to cool off at the Central Campus Pool, which is currently open every day from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. and beginning May 26, will change to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Located at 1917 Yearby Ave., the pool offers lanes for lap swim as well as an open pool area for relaxation and play. Chairs are provided. Visitors must present a valid DukeCard ID upon entry. Free parking is available after 4 p.m. weekdays and all day on weekends.

For more Duke events, visit the calendar.