Exciting News: Duke University Appoints Deborah Rutter, Former Kennedy Center President, as New Vice Provost for the Arts

Deborah Rutter has a new role at Duke University as the vice provost for the arts, starting September 1. This news came out in a recent press release from Duke Today. Rutter previously led the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and was part of a significant reshuffle that involved her departure from that position in February.

In her role at Duke, Rutter aims to nurture creativity among faculty, students, and staff. She wants to weave the arts into the fabric of education at the university. Her appointment followed a thorough national search that included faculty and administrators.

Rutter expressed excitement about her new job. “It’s a dream come true,” she stated. She has dedicated her life to supporting artists and making art accessible to everyone. Under her leadership, many collaborative and innovative projects are expected to flourish.

As a trailblazer in arts administration, Rutter also made history as the first female president of the Kennedy Center from 2014 to 2025. During her time there, she initiated the center’s first expansion and broadened its programming to include a variety of artistic expressions, focusing on Hip Hop and its cultural significance.

Paul Jaskot, chair of Duke’s art department, praised Rutter for her vision. He believes she will enhance the university’s arts offerings and strengthen academic programs. Rutter has received acclaim, including an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from Duke, for her contributions to the arts.

Overall, Rutter’s deep background includes leadership roles with renowned organizations like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Seattle Symphony. She also has ties to Duke, where her daughter graduated in 2020. Rutter holds degrees in music and business, which set the stage for her impactful career in arts administration.

With her extensive experience and passion for the arts, Rutter’s leadership at Duke promises to elevate the university’s commitment to artistic expression and creativity.

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