Longtime Board Members Curry, Deloach Retire

In December 2025, The Duke Endowment recognized the service of Trustees Ravenel B. Curry III and Harris E. DeLoach Jr. upon their retirements, honoring their years of leadership and stewardship.  

Both provided steady guidance that strengthened the Endowment’s strategy and impact across the Carolinas. Their thoughtful leadership leaves a lasting mark on the organization’s work. Curry served for 17 years on the Board of Trustees, while Harris served for 13.  

President Rhett Mabry expressed appreciation for their contributions, noting that their steady judgment and commitment to improving lives have left a lasting mark on the organization’s work. 

Staff Updates 

The Endowment’s staff saw a number of changes in 2025. 

Six new employees were hired. They included: 

• B. Dean Burgos, Human Resources Manager  
• Emily B. Meszaros, Coordinator, Finance  
• Hannah Saeger Karnei, Grants Analyst, Finance  
• Carrie Underwood, Program Analyst, Rural Church  
• Quintin Van Dyk, Program Analyst, Health Care  
• Katarina K. Walker, Financial Accountant  

Promotions

• Eric E. Frazier from Digital Communications Strategist to Senior Communications Officer  
• Jay E. Kennedy from Program Officer, Health Care to Senior Program Officer, Health Care  
• Ellie Smith from Program Analyst, Health Care to Program Officer, Health Care  
• Phillip H. Redmond Jr. from Director, Child & Family Well-Being to Special Advisor to the President  
• Shaheen B. Towles from Associate Director, Communications to Director, Communications  
• Tamika D. Williams from Associate Director, Child & Family Well-Being to Director, Child & Family Well-Being
• Brittany S. Worden from Program Analyst, Special Initiatives to Program Officer, Special Initiatives  

Retirements 

• Chris M. Collins, Associate Director, Health Care  
• Charity L. Perkins, Director, Communications  
• Matthew D. Sharp, Director, Information Technology