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Durham University Gets $4.15M Boost for Tech & Sustainability Initiatives

A generous $4.15 million donation from Dr. Neil Hunt and Julie Raymond will transform Durham University's tech and sustainability initiatives. The funds will support students from diverse backgrounds and foster innovation.

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Durham University Gets $4.15M Boost for Tech & Sustainability Initiatives

Duke University has received a significant boost with a US $4.15 million donation from Dr. Neil Hunt and his partner Julie Raymond. The generous contribution will fund various initiatives aimed at supporting students and fostering innovation in the fields of technology and sustainability.

Dr. Hunt, who was once an undergraduate and postgraduate student at Duke University, is now giving back to his alma mater. He graduated from Duke in 1985 and went on to become Netflix's first Chief Product Officer in 1999, a role he held until 2018.

The donation builds on the Hunt Programme, established five years ago to inspire the next generation of technology leaders. It will support several new initiatives, including the Futures in STEM programme. This programme aims to encourage young people from low-income backgrounds to study Computer Science at Duke.

The donation will also establish new sustainability-focused PhD scholarships, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, it will support science students to gain valuable industry experience.

Previously, the Hunt Programme has supported the Anne-Marie Imafidon (AMI) Women in Technology programme and scholarships in Computer Science. Now, it will expand to include the Hunt-Raymond Innovation Programme, which will foster student entrepreneurship at the university.

Dr. Hunt, since leaving Netflix, has been actively involved in founding, funding, and advising several start-up businesses with a strong social purpose. This donation is a testament to his commitment to inspiring the next generation and promoting sustainable development.

The US $4.15 million donation from Dr. Neil Hunt and Julie Raymond will have a profound impact on Duke University. It will support students from diverse backgrounds, foster innovation, and promote sustainability through various initiatives. The university is grateful for their generosity and looks forward to the positive changes these programmes will bring.

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