When Working@Duke last featured Major Ron Evans from the Duke University Police Department, he had just completed a year with the Duke Leadership Academy. He reflected on leadership and the importance of building relationships.
Since then, Evans’ role has grown. He now faces new challenges, but his leadership philosophy hasn’t changed, thanks to his time with the academy.
As we celebrate Working@Duke’s 20th anniversary, we revisit Evans to see how he and his leadership approach have evolved.
Before joining Duke in 2010, Evans spent 28 years at the Durham Police Department. Initially, he was a patrol lieutenant overseeing a small team. In 2018, he became a major, responsible for all patrol operations. That increase meant more challenges and opportunities.
“Becoming a major opened my eyes to many aspects of leadership I hadn’t considered before,” Evans shared. “It’s so much more than just managing tasks.”
Evans believes being a great leader is about lifting others up. He emphasizes creating a supportive environment where team members can thrive. His time in the Duke Leadership Academy helped him think more critically about leadership. “The academy encourages curiosity and scientific thinking about leadership,” he said.
Since the last feature, Evans has taken on new responsibilities, including overseeing the department’s emergency communications team. This role involves managing advanced communication systems that keep Duke’s emergency personnel connected.
Evans describes his leadership style as servant leadership. “I genuinely care about my team’s well-being,” he stated. This emphasis on empathy and encouragement is what motivates him daily.
What keeps Evans at Duke after 16 years? He loves the collective energy of the community. “Everyone here is focused on success,” he said. That shared ambition makes the environment exciting.
In a world where effective leadership matters more than ever, Evans exemplifies the balance of authority and empathy. As workplaces evolve, leaders like him show the path forward by fostering growth and connection.
For further insights on effective leadership, check out resources from the Duke Human Resources program or explore recent studies on leadership styles and their impact on team dynamics. You can read more about leadership trends in this Forbes article.
