Dr. Judith Kelley

Biography

Judith Kelley is the Terry Sanford Distinguished Professor of Public Policy and Political Science at Duke University, where she has also served as Dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy from 2018 to 2024 and as Senior Associate Dean from 2014. Her leadership has been pivotal in navigating crucial challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her guidance, the school has expanded its educational offerings, doubling the size of its Master of Public Policy program, and launched new master’s degrees, while maintaining high national rankings. Kelley's research focuses on the role of states, international organizations, and NGOs in promoting domestic political reforms, and she engages extensively with issues of human rights, democracy, and international election observation. She has been recognized with several awards for her teaching and scholarship, including the Susan E. Tifft Undergraduate Teaching and Mentoring Award. Her publication record is extensive, with works appearing in major academic journals and university presses, including Princeton University Press and Cambridge University Press. Kelley's recent research includes topics related to human trafficking and global performance indicators, showcasing her commitment to addressing pressing political and social challenges.

Research Interests

Experience