Craig Henriquez

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Craig S. Henriquez, who passed Thursday, August 24, 2023 at the age of 64 years old. Craig was a remarkable man whose presence illuminated the lives of those around him, especially his wife and children. His life was a testament to authenticity and unwavering care, leaving an enduring impact on those he touched.

Born in Mount Kisco, New York on January 21, 1959, to Armando “Mickey” and Martha Henriquez, he was a cherished brother to his older sister Sherry and his younger sister Natalie. He was raised in Katonah, NY. His high school years saw him crowned as the Valedictorian of John Jay High School 1977. In high school, he was passionate about music, where he was awarded the esteemed John Phillip Sousa award for his skill with the trombone.

At Duke University, Craig earned dual bachelor’s degrees in biomedical engineering and electrical engineering in 1981, setting the stage for an illustrious academic journey. After briefly revisiting his high school as a teacher, he continued to Duke, obtaining his PhD in biomedical engineering in 1988 under advisor Robert Plonsey. It was during these years that he met his best friend and later wife, Alexandra Papazoglou.

Craig's journey through academia led him to join Duke’s biomedical engineering department as a faculty member immediately after completing his doctorate. His tenure was marked by a dedication to teaching and mentorship. He received esteemed recognition, including the Bass Professorship for excellence in research and undergraduate teaching in 2001 and 2013. Additionally, in 2009, Craig was recognized with The Klein Family Distinguished Teaching Award from Duke Engineering further highlighting his exceptional ability to inspire a passion for engineering in his students. Craig served as chair of Duke’s Academic Council and from 2011 to 2014, he served as chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering. Most recently he joined the Office for Faculty Advancement as associate vice provost.

Craig's pursuits weren't confined to the classroom. An avid Duke basketball fan with high expectations for his team, he was often found amidst the crowd in Cameron Stadium cheering, and sometimes criticizing, his beloved Blue Devils. Craig also found a deep love for music, nonfiction books, restaurants, and of course the sweet treats. His love for outdoor activities was reflected in pursuits including pickleball, kayaking, and long walks with his family dog Kiki. Above all, he prioritized spending time with his family, playing cribbage and watching movies while serving as a loving perch for his cats.

After marriage to Alexandra (Sandy), his faith journey led him to embrace Greek Orthodoxy, with his deep baritone voice resonating in the church choir. With the birth of his children, he further embraced a life of faith baptizing his children Maria Evangelia Henriquez and Luke Adamantious Henriquez, attending their Greek dance performances and faith and cultural formation activities.

Craig Henriquez leaves behind a legacy of kindness, authenticity, and dedication. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and students. As we reflect on his life, we're reminded of the power of genuine connection, a lesson he taught us through his actions and the love he shared with those around him.

Craig is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Sandy Henriquez, his daughter Maria, and his son Luke. He is also remembered by his sisters, Sherry Hall (Steve), Natalie Ziccolella (Vinnie), his brothers-in-law John Papazoglou (Wendy) and Michael Papazoglou (Dena), and beloved nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

The viewing for friends and family will be held on Tuesday, August 29 at 6:00 pm ET at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 5000 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh, NC 27612. Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, August 30th at 11:00 am ET at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Internment will be on Thursday, August 31st at 10:00 am ET at Maplewood Cemetery, Durham, NC.

The funeral service, officiated by Very Reverend Father Stavroforos Mamais and Rev. Father Paul Christy, can be streamed Wednesday here.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in memory of Dr. Craig S. Henriquez to Duke University. On-line contributions can be made at https://giving.duke.edu/ and designated to The Craig S. Henriquez Fund which will be used to support the Emerti Faculty Initiative which Craig led in his role as Associate Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement and as a Professor of Biomedical Engineering.

Checks should be made payable to Duke University, referencing “The Craig S. Henriquez Fund” on the memo line, then mailed to Duke University, Alumni & Development Records, Box 90581, Durham, NC 27708. For additional assistance please contact gifts2duke@duke.edu or call 919-684-2338 to make a credit card gift.