Experience

Strategic Communications and Brand Journalism

People often ask how I went from newspaper reporting to strategic communications. To me, the answer is simple.

I've always been fascinated by the who, what, where, when, why and how. That's what first drew me to journalism. It continues to shape how I think, solve problems and lead. Understanding people, uncovering what matters and asking one more question have shaped every step of my career. I've always been energized by building something that doesn't yet exist and solving problems.

My career has taken me from covering crime and local government for the St. Petersburg Times to helping lead strategic communications and an editorial team at Duke University/Duke University Health System, where I helped Duke navigate change, strengthen trust and tell stories that connect people to a shared purpose.

Whether I'm advising a senior leader, interviewing a source or developing a communications strategy, I start with curiosity. I ask thoughtful questions, listen carefully and look for what others might overlook. That's how I help people and organizations solve problems, build trust and move important work forward.

With a circulation of 38,000, Working@Duke is the award-winning magazine for Duke University and Duke University Health System staff and faculty. More than a publication, it is a shared space that builds community, connects employees to a sense of purpose, and celebrates the people who bring Duke's mission to life every day.

Career Highlights


  • Built the award-winning Working@Duke employee communications portfolio (print, digital, social media and YouTube) from the ground up, combining entrepreneurial thinking with strategic execution to create an integrated content strategy recognized with 13 CASE Circle of Excellence Awards and four Ragan Communications Awards. Helped strengthen Duke University/Duke Health’s employer brand, resulting in national workplace recognition by Forbes and Newsweek.

  • Solve complex communications challenges by translating audience research, analytics and employee feedback into strategies that inform leadership decisions, strengthen trust and deliver measurable results.


  • Bring a journalist's and public affairs mindset to every challenge, shaped by a decade covering crime, government and public safety for the St. Petersburg Times.

  • Speak nationally on storytelling and content strategy, including at a national conference hosted at Facebook.

  • Advise senior leaders on communications strategy, reputation, organizational change initiatives, crisis communications and high-profile institutional priorities.

Education

Master of Arts in Liberal Studies, Duke University

Bachelor of Science in News Editorial, Texas Christian University

Certificate in Documentary Studies, Duke University


Leanora Minai, center, receives the 2026 “Institutional Impact Award,” which honors long-standing service characterized by deep commitment, continuity and sustained excellence in advancing Duke University’s communications mission. At left, Pamela Gibbs-Smith, Assistant Vice President for Communication Strategy, Operations and Engagement. At right, Frank Tramble, Vice President for Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs.

Awards & Recognition

2026 “Institutional Impact Award,” honoring long-standing service characterized by deep commitment, continuity and sustained excellence in advancing Duke University’s communications mission.

13 CASE Circle of Excellence Awards

Four Ragan Communications Awards, including a Grand Prize

Jesse Laventhol Prize for Deadline News Reporting

Duke Leadership Academy scholar

Leadership & Board Service

Public Relations Society of America, Member, 2022–present

Conceived and helped launch the “Get Golf Ready League” at Duke University Golf Club after identifying a need for beginning golfers to continue learning and playing together. Served as the league's inaugural leader in 2026, helping establish a program that will continue beyond its first season.

Florida Public Relations Association, Board VP Student Outreach, Orlando Chapter, 2023–2025

Adjunct News Reporting Instructor, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 2024

Historical Society of Central Florida, VP of Board, Orlando, FL, 2022–2025

Museum of Durham History, Board member, 2015-19