Duke Leadership Academy Scholars Profile

Lara Whittaker

Title: Director, Research Administration
Location:
Senior Management Area: Campus Grants Management Team
Class Year: 2024

Bio:
Lara Whittaker is the Director of the Campus Grants Management Team, which provides lifecycle research administration support Provost area units. Lara holds a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from UNC-Chapel Hill and a Master's Degree in Public Policy from the College of William and Mary. She has worked in various roles in university research administration since 2006 and has an extensive background in research administration, compliance, leadership, and team building. When she's not at work, Lara can be found working on her level 3 sommelier certification, taking classes, and reading books related to viticulture and enology. She also hikes every weekend with her dog and often takes trips to the North Carolina mountains to unwind.