As part of the Center for Child and Family Policy's 25th Anniversary celebration, we are honoring faculty, researchers, and staff who have contributed to the Center's work, culture, and impact.
Beatrice Chestnutt was an administrative assistant at the Center for Child and Family Policy from 2011 to 2021.
Read on to learn more about Bea’s work with the Center, her favorite books, and receiving the City of Durham’s highest honor, the Carlie B. Sessoms Award.
What year did you start working at the Center for Child and Family Policy and how long did you work here?
I began working at the Center for Child and Family Policy in June 2011. Twenty-one wonderful years with the Center and 33 years with Duke.
What made you want to start working at CCFP?
A friend who worked with CCFP told me how she enjoyed working at the Center. When a position became available, I applied.
Could you briefly describe your role at CCFP?
My role with CCFP was admin assistant, helping with the day-to-day operations.
What were some of your earliest memories of joining the Center?
My first memory of the Center were the people. How they were so welcoming. I was amazed at the work that went on within CCFP.
Why is the work that CCFP does particularly important to you?
Making policies and helping communities change for the better.
What parts of your career with the Center make you proudest to look back on?
I was so proud to be part of many projects, for example: The Grandparent Network, Great Schools and Families; there were many other projects I was associated with.
How did the Center change during your time here?
It was always growing and had many new ideas that changed the lives of others for the better within our communities.
What’s something people might not know about you?
I received the Carlie B. Sessoms Award in 2016. It is the highest and most coveted award that recognizes an individual or an organization that has made a major impact on improving human relations in Durham.
Could you tell us a bit about your community and educational work?
I served on the Board of Directors at Research Triangle Academy for over 15 years. My belief is to help the children along the way.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
The Little Red Hen. It is the story of hard work and never giving up.
Are there any books that you continue to return to and why?
The Warmth of Other Suns, by Isabel Wilkerson; The Other Wes Moore, by Wes Moore. These two books explain how life changes.
What’s one of your favorite local restaurants and what is one of your favorite things on the menu?
Bullock's off Hillandale Road. The pork chops are great.
What was your favorite game as a child?
Jump Rope.
The 2024-2025 academic year marks the 25th anniversary of the Center for Child and Family Policy (CCFP) at Duke University. In celebrating this significant milestone, we are shining a light on individuals who have been instrumental in shaping the legacy of CCFP. In these 25th Anniversary Spotlights, we’re asking current and former faculty, researchers and staff a series of questions designed to delve into their personal stories and experiences.