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Part of Duke’s DNA

Ytina Mangum helps manage Duke’s hub for genomics and precision medicine

Center for Applied Genomics & Precision Medicine employees take a photo together. Ytina Mangum is second from the left in the second row, in the white shirt and glasses.
Center for Applied Genomics & Precision Medicine employees take a photo together. Ytina Mangum is second from the left in the second row, in the white shirt and glasses.

Name: Ytina MangumPosition: Senior business manager, Center for Applied Genomics & Precision MedicineYears at Duke: 11

What I do at Duke: I serve in a dual role as the senior business manager for the Center for Applied Genomics & Precision Medicine and the new MEDx Initiative. The new initiative is a collaboration between Pratt School of Engineering and School of Medicine. I provide administrative leadership, and my duties include management of grants and contracts, financial management and accountability, human resources, space and facilities, and support to our education programs. We are also interested in opportunities to connect with students and give them insight into Data Science & Analytics and the Applied Genomics fields of study. We’re in the process of organizing our Genomic Café for next fall where students can get exciting information about innovative discovery and translational research.

If I had $5 million, I would: open homes for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system who are enrolled in college and may not have a home to come back to over holidays or summer break.

My first ever job: When I was 13 years old, I was selected to work in BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina as a summer intern, and I worked in their claims department opening mail. This was pre-electronic submission system.

My dream job: Opening up some type of center or organization that will provide direct support to teens that are at-risk in our community. I’ve had several years of experience working in my church, St. James Baptist Church, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with kids that may be dealing with issues that are really beyond their control. I’m always thinking how I can improve the outcomes of their lives.

The best advice I ever received: Not to let the trials and tribulations of life dictate my future. Trials and tribulations should be used as a learning tool.

What I love about Duke: I really love the opportunities available for career advancement and development. As an African-American woman, sometimes it’s difficult for us to secure leadership roles, and it is truly a blessing to have options available to me and so many others.   When I’m not at work, I like to: do a lot of reading and I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

If I could have one superpower, it would be: to put love in the hearts of all people. I believe that we all should love and be loved.Something most people don’t know about me: I graduated from Durham’s Hillside High School in the 11th grade with honors.

An interesting/memorable day at work for me: The day that my promotion from the role of grants and contracts manager to the senior business manager was announced, the supportive responses from staff and faculty were overwhelming. It was really amazing to know that I was truly making a difference and had a positive impact in the day-to-day operations of the center.