Duke Learning Innovation and Lifetime Education (LILE) is Duke University’s central source for teaching and learning innovation on campus and through Duke’s professional, continuing, and online education offerings. Our research-driven educational consulting and market-driven lifetime learning opportunities serve all learners, from pre-college to post-career.

Our Strategic Priorities

We serve Duke faculty, students, staff, alumni, and our global community of lifetime learners by working to:

  • Increase teaching and learning effectiveness through a culture of data-informed and research-driven educational innovation
  • Grow the community of Duke learners by creating in-demand educational programs and services
  • Broaden access to Duke learning opportunities for all through inclusive pathways to learn for all types of learners – anywhere, at any age
  • Be a trusted partner to our people, programs, and partners

Our Core Values & Commitments

We value integrity, and we commit to doing what we say we will do, communicating openly, holding ourselves accountable, and leading by example.

We value inclusivity, and we commit to welcoming and fully engaging people of diverse backgrounds, abilities and perspectives; treating everyone equitably and respectfully; and constantly working to broaden access to Duke learning opportunities.

We value innovation, and we commit to approaching challenges with curiosity and creativity, taking risks, remaining adaptable, and embracing failure as a necessary aspect of learning.

We value collaboration, and we commit to empowering our colleagues, leveraging teamwork, and recognizing everyone’s contributions.

We value lifelong learning, and we commit to a continued pursuit of knowledge, and promoting access to a lifetime of education for all.


The values of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) are foundational to our work making Duke more accessible to non-traditional learners via lifetime education, and supporting Duke faculty in making their classrooms spaces where all feel equal and included. To encourage ongoing awareness and discussion of DEIA within LILE, our internal DEIA Action Group hosts regular meetings at which all LILE staff are welcome. We invite you to learn more about the group’s focus and activities.