Ytina Mangum is the senior business manager for the Center for Applied Genomics & Precision Medicine at Duke and is Duke Today's "Blue Devil of the Week." Read an excerpt of the interview below.
What I do at Duke: I serve in a dual role as the senior business manager for the Center for Applied Genomics & Precision Medicine and the new MEDx Initiative. The new initiative is a collaboration between Pratt School of Engineering and School of Medicine. I provide administrative leadership, and my duties include management of grants and contracts, financial management and accountability, human resources, space and facilities, and support to our education programs. We are also interested in opportunities to connect with students and give them insight into Data Science & Analytics and the Applied Genomics fields of study. We’re in the process of organizing our Genomic Café for next fall where students can get exciting information about innovative discovery and translational research.
If I had $5 million, I would: open homes for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system who are enrolled in college and may not have a home to come back to over holidays or summer break.
What I love about Duke: I really love the opportunities available for career advancement and development. As an African-American woman, sometimes it’s difficult for us to secure leadership roles, and it is truly a blessing to have options available to me and so many others.
An interesting/memorable day at work for me: The day that my promotion from the role of grants and contracts manager to the senior business manager was announced, the supportive responses from staff and faculty were overwhelming. It was really amazing to know that I was truly making a difference and had a positive impact in the day-to-day operations of the center.