Program Coordinator for Development & Alumni Relations
Zyra Dent is the Development Program Coordinator at Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy, where she supports the Development and Alumni Relations team by managing development travel and expenses, coordinating annual giving and the class gift, and supporting digital communications.
She joined Sanford in May 2024 after earning her BA in Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from North Carolina Central University. A passionate storyteller and community advocate, Zyra brings a strong background in communications and marketing shaped by roles in higher education and media.
Her previous experience includes internships with Duke’s Sanford School and Department of Medicine, where she developed faculty profiles, created social content, and supported DEI initiatives. She is a 2024 ColorComm Fellow, Mellon Grant Scholar, and winner of the 2023 RTDNAC award for Best Student Feature Reporting.
Outside of work, Zyra enjoys braiding her hair, spending time with friends, and exploring the RDU area.