Three individuals with extensive careers at Duke will be awarded the 2026 Medals for Distinguished Meritorious Service, the University’s “highest honor,” in recognition of their longstanding contributions to the institution, announced a Monday press release.
Dan Brooks, Duan Family women’s golf head coach; Jacqueline Looney, former senior associate dean and associate vice provost of The Graduate School; and Trustee Emerita Laurene Sperling were selected as the recipients of the medals.
The medals, awarded for enduring contributions to the University, will be officially presented later this fall during Founders’ Weekend, an annual tradition at the end of September dedicated to reflecting on the University’s history, celebrating its community and honoring key figures who have shaped its legacy. Last year’s recipients were Trustee Emerita Anne Bass and Executive Vice President Emeritus Tallman Trask. The 2026 awardees will join a list that includes Mike Krzyzewski, former men’s basketball head coach, and Trustee Emeritus David Rubenstein, Trinity ‘70…