The Office of the University Secretary at Duke University was established by by-law in 1903. The Office evolved with the University and the roles and responsibilities likely shifted from person to person. Today's Office most likely began in 1941 with Charles Jordan. The Secretary is an officer of the University and reports directly to the President. A major role of the Secretary's Office is to coordinate affairs of the Board of Trustees. Records include correspondence with Trustees and Presidents, Honorary Degrees and Search Committees for high-level administrators, reports, volunteer directories, faculty data and photographs, questionnaires and University by-laws. Some materials have been transferred to the Board of Trustees collection.
The Office of the University Secretary's records includes correspondence, reports, volunteer directories, faculty data and photographs, questionnaires, and University by-laws.