Born and raised in Monroe, Michigan, Ann Duke is a dynamic speaker, producer, marketer, and stand-up comic whose diverse career spans the arts, media, nonprofit, and entertainment worlds. A University of Michigan graduate with degrees in theatre and communications, she co-owned the renowned Duke Gallery, gaining international recognition as an expert in 20th-century decorative arts.
 
In the mid-90s, Ann transitioned into public relations and large-scale event production, managing everything from intimate gatherings to events with over 10,000 attendees. Her ability to lead teams with precision and creativity made her a go-to collaborator across industries.

Ann was part of the original team that launched Hour Detroit magazine, serving as Advertising Director for 14 years and playing a pivotal role in launching multiple titles and signature programs like the Detroit Home Design Awards. Her executive leadership continued with roles at Marketshare and Tapper’s Jewelers, before returning to Hour Media as Director of New Business Development.

A committed community leader, Ann has held board positions with the Detroit Area Art Deco Society, Preservation Wayne, Michigan Aids Coalition, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, and more. She received the Spirit of Detroit Award for her work in AIDS prevention advocacy.

Most recently, as Chief Development Officer at Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County, she led fundraising strategy, grant management, volunteer programs, and marketing. In 2019, Ann stepped into stand-up comedy, performing across the region at venues like Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, and the Detroit Women of Comedy Festival. She is a Co-Producer of the Traverse City Comedy Fest, now in its third year. She co-founded Eyes Up Here, a powerhouse collective of female comics, and recently toured with Showtime’s Funny Women of a Certain Age. She also took the TEDxDetroit stage as a featured speaker.

Ann currently lives in Bloomfield Hills, where she enjoys golf, entertaining, and helping her daughter renovate her new home.