Each student is assigned to one academic dean, and this dean will remain theirs for all four years. This is to ensure that every student has one consistent academic contact over the course of their time at Duke, as well as to provide for holistic support and long-term mentoring relationships that provide continuity over time. First-year students are assigned to a dean in late July or early August.
Your dean will provide support and advice about university policy and requirements, and help with other issues such as academic planning, course withdrawals, and leaves of absence as needed. If you are experiencing academic difficulties you should see your academic dean as soon as possible.