Office Space: Laura Ulmer
Laura Ulmer serves as the associate dean of student engagement in Student Affairs at Washington and Lee University.
Culture Archive (247 Stories)
W&L Holds 2026 Leadership Excellence Awards
The annual banquet recognizes the many individual and group accomplishments of W&L students within the past year.
To the Moon and Back with Andy Scott ’99
Scott, systems analysis integration lead for the Orion program at Lockheed Martin, shares about his role in the Artemis II mission.
Student Organization Spotlight: Around the Globe
Around the Globe is a student organization offering dance classes and workshops for W&L students to learn new dances from around the world.
W&L’s University Libraries Celebrate a Milestone Birthday
Washington and Lee’s university library system held its 250th anniversary celebration March 11-12 with events and programs that highlighted the library’s past and present.
250 Years of Learning
Washington and Lee University’s library system celebrates a quarter millennium of scholarship.
W&L Students Explore Career Paths Over February Break
Washington and Lee’s Office of Career and Professional Development recently took students to New York City for an immersive week of alumni networking and career exploration.
Students Help Shape Library Life Through Advisory Board
W&L’s Library Student Advisory Board allows students to have a voice in the university library’s events and initiatives.
Educational Odyssey
Ashton Evans ’26 reflects on a W&L experience full of mentorship, global learning and skills she will carry with her for life.
Winter Reading Recs
Washington and Lee University’s library staff recommend their current favorite winter reads.
‘W&L After Class’ Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Angela Sun
To kick off the seventh season of “W&L After Class,” assistant professor of philosophy Angela Sun reflects on aesthetics from the lens of her field of research.
W&L Without Borders
Brandon Bishop ’26's journey shows how W&L’s global opportunities, language instruction and fellowships can transform a student’s path.
Student Snapshots of 2025
A few of W&L’s student photographers who work with the Office of Communications and Public Affairs look back at some of their favorite photos from 2025.
The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life Hosts End-of-Year Banquet
The office brought W&L student leaders together to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions.
New MESA and Arabic Minors Broaden W&L Students’ Horizons
Washington and Lee’s new Arabic minor grew out of its innovative, interdisciplinary Middle East and Southeast Asian Studies program.
The Perfect Match
Washington and Lee students connect with local schools through the Burish Program.
Enjoy a Festive 2025 Holiday Season
The W&L community celebrates the 2025 holiday season with a wide variety of campus and local events.
Finding Her Voice
Isabel Duarte ’26 found a path at W&L that blends music and science in perfect harmony.
The Language of Humanity
Professor of French Mohamed Kamara describes his interconnected teaching, scholarship and service.
Record Attendance Marks the Sixth Washington and Lee Real Estate Forum
Washington and Lee's Real Estate Forum, held October 8–9, saw record-breaking attendance at its sixth biannual event.
Office Space: Jemma Levy
Jemma Levy, associate professor of acting and directing at Washington and Lee University, gives us a tour of her office.
AI Conversations on Campus
W&L’s forward-thinking mindset surrounding the emergence of AI leads to engaged classwork, research and discussions.
Lindley Center In Action
Washington and Lee’s Lindley Center for Student Wellness welcomes students into a new space designed for a holistic approach to wellness.
International Perspectives
This year’s cohort of Davis United World College Scholars have come from across the globe to make their mark on W&L.
Shepherd’s Summer Interns Make an Impact Around the World
The Shepherd Program offers undergraduates three distinct pathways to complete its eight-week, full-time summer internship, each designed to deepen students’ understanding of poverty.
Rare Student Research Opportunity
The W&L Art Museum has released a new digital catalog of the Groke Mickey collection of rare Chinese fan paintings.
Washington and Lee’s Community-Based Learning’s Summer Internship Program Reaches New Heights
W&L’s Office of Community-Based Learning sent its largest-ever internship cohort into the local community this summer.
Bringing W&L to Santiago
Four Washington and Lee University students traveled to Santiago, Chile, this summer through the CIEE Summer Global Internship program.
Student Organization Spotlight: Peer Connectors
Washington and Lee Peer Connectors provide new students with a warm welcome to campus.
W&L Student Empowers Her Community through Davis Projects for Peace
Anshika Patel ’26 spent her summer scaling up an initiative offering public health education and vocational training in her community.
Washington and Lee University to Host Inaugural Summit on the Future of AI
The PLAI Summit offers a full day of programming and discussion in tandem with W&L's Young Alumni Weekend.
‘W&L After Class’ Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Stu Gray
Stu Gray, associate professor of politics, discusses philosophy, teaching collaboratively with students and being mindful in a technological world.
Allie Stankewich ’23 Awarded SIT Alice Rowan Swanson Fellowship
While working for the Fulbright program as a teaching mentor in Uganda, Stankewich partnered with a local organization to build a fish farm social enterprise.
Tackling the Bucket List
Students in the Outing Club’s new pilot Spring Term program had the chance to step outside their comfort zones one more time before Commencement.
What the Mountain Gives You
Chris Paudel ’28 set out to challenge himself — and cultural stereotypes — through a mountaineering expedition in his home country of Nepal.
From Mystery to Mastery
A chance encounter in the Science Center as a child set Alyssa Cirrincione ’25 on a path to pursue her curiosity at W&L.
Student Organization Spotlight: International Student Mentors
W&L’s International Student Mentors Program pairs new international students with upper-division students to help them navigate life on campus.
W&L Holds 2025 Leadership Excellence Awards
The annual banquet recognizes the many individual and group accomplishments of W&L students within the past year.
Looking Forward and Giving Back
The Class of 2025’s Senior Gift Committee co-chairs have already sailed past their monetary goal as they look toward Commencement.
Office Space: Jay Margalus
Jay Margalus, Johnson Professor of Entrepreneurship and Leadership and director of the Connolly Center for Entrepreneurship, offers us an office tour.
Forging Their Futures
Helen Ezgo ’25 and Maina Shodmonbekova ’25 traveled across the world to expand their horizons at W&L thanks to the John M. Gunn International Scholarship.
Student Organization Spotlight: Career Fellows
W&L Career Fellows offer peer-to-peer support for students exploring their career aspirations.
Showcasing History, Culture and Community
W&L’s third annual NPHC Step Show Competition invited the campus and local community into a vibrant tradition.
Positivity Meets Personal Connections
Mariam Drammeh ’25 has approached research, internships and campus involvement with an eye toward a future rooted in service to others.
Rho Gammas Guide First-Years Through Sorority Recruitment
Sorority recruitment counselors, or Rho Gammas, assist first-year women in W&L’s formal recruitment process to join Panhellenic sororities.
On Our Honor
Past presidents of Washington and Lee University’s Executive Committee reflect on how it prepared them for a life of values-driven leadership.
Student Organization Spotlight: WLUR
At WLUR-FM, Washington and Lee University's radio voice since 1967, students get an introduction to audio production, podcasting and more.
Living Lab
This fall, W&L students learned environmental field methods at a six-acre site in Rockbridge County set aside for experiential learning.
Celebrating 10 Years of QuestBridge
Since 2010, the university has enrolled 326 students through QuestBridge’s match program, helping high-achieving, low-income students access higher education.
Student Organization Spotlight: The Executive Committee
Washington and Lee’s Executive Committee remains committed to upholding the university's rich tradition of student self-governance.
‘To Be Where Your Feet Are’
The Kendrick Award, established in memory of Bryant Kendrick ’67, encourages W&L students to experience the natural world.
Student Organization Spotlight: Native American Student Organization
W&L’s Native American Student Organization (NASO) connects the campus to educational programming, events and resources celebrating Indigenous history, culture and community.
Project Uplift
Three W&L students partnered with an NGO in Ghana this summer to create a training program for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
Opportunity to Thrive
Adhip Adhikari ’27 spent much of his summer creating a library at a secondary school near his family's home in Katmandu, Nepal.
‘W&L After Class’ Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Melissa Kerin
In this month’s episode, Kerin, professor of art history, discusses how following her curiosity of the ways in which people tell stories opened her to opportunities to study remote Buddhist shrines in the Himalayas and examine how we live and die as the director of the Roger Mudd Center for Ethics.
Office Hours with Robert Humston and Megan Fulcher
Professors Robert Humston and Megan Fulcher are part of a team of faculty volunteers who serve as liaisons between athletics and academics.
Student Org Spotlight: wluLEX
W&L’s student-run social media team arrived this fall ready to explore multiple social media platforms and showcase the vibrance of the Fall Term.
W&L Marketplace Celebrates National Food Service Workers Day
Approximately 300 Dining Services employees plan, make and serve meals at one of the seven dining facilities on campus.
Impacting Lives Through Words
Veronika Kolosova ’25 has explored the liberal arts experience at W&L through campus involvement and an interdisciplinary approach to her studies.
Hands-On Experience
Students participating in two new Leading Edge programs during this year’s first-year orientation were able to complete tactile projects while building community on campus.
Snapshots of Summer
W&L students share their experiences getting to know the larger Lexington and Rockbridge community during the summer months.
Unearthing Answers
By enlisting guidance from the W&L science community, Emma Marvelli ’27 combined a Spring Term abroad class with summer research to better understand Virginia meta-basalts and their potential for combating climate change.
Business in Barcelona
Eliza Spaht ’26 took a course on the economics of winemaking with the Council on International Educational Exchange’s Business and Culture program in Barcelona, Spain.
Student Organization Spotlight: First-Year Orientation Committee
The First-Year Orientation Committee has been planning since last fall to offer programming to welcome the Class of 2028 to W&L’s campus later this month.
Summer Knights
The A. Paul Knight Internship Program in Conservation, named in memory of a late Washington and Lee student, allows students to pursue their passion for environmental conservation.
Summer of Growth
Addie-Grace Cook ’25, a politics major with a double minor in Middle East and South Asia studies and poverty and human capability studies, is spending her summer making an impact in the greater Rockbridge community through a Shepherd Program internship with Project Horizon.
Turning a Vision Into Reality
Melos Ambaye ’25 is helping children in Ethiopia as part of her Shepherd summer internship.
Roots Pilgrimage
Ryan Doty’s summer passion project explored his family lineage through poetry and photography.
International Bonds
Members of Washington and Lee University’s Class of 2024 who began their W&L experience at the University of St. Andrews in 2020 reflect on their unique experience.
W&L Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Paul Youngman
“W&L After Class” invites listeners to join W&L faculty to discuss their teaching, research and passion projects.
A Choir That Cares
This year's graduating class of Washington and Lee's University Singers reflects on their college experience.
Leading By Example
Ben Bankston ’25 is finding opportunities at W&L to challenge himself in and out of the classroom.
Unearthing History
Students, faculty and alumni gathered April 12-13 to recognize the archaeological evolution of W&L’s back campus.
Student Organization Spotlight: GAB
Washington and Lee's Generals Activities Board has taken a dynamic approach to bringing the student body together through live music.
W&L Student Performs at Havana Jazz Festival
A meeting with a Broadway legend allowed engineering major Zaria Daniels ’26 to take her vocal talents to Cuba.
Voices from the Generals
The Harte Center for Teaching and Learning is bringing student voices to a new podcast designed to share perspectives on transitioning to college life.
An Extraordinary Combination
Laura Murambadoro ’26 brings varied interests, a collaborative leadership style and a passion for community engagement to W&L’s campus.
W&L After Class Podcast Begins its Fifth Season
“W&L After Class,” now entering its fifth season, invites listeners to join conversations with W&L’s expert faculty about their teaching, research and passion projects.
Alumni and Students Connect Through Choreography
The W&L Repertory Dance Company’s alumni-student dance performance in New York City’s Center for Performance Research returned after a four-year hiatus.
Unjudge Someone
The Human Library, a collaboration between the Mudd Center for Ethics and Leyburn Library, brought the W&L community together in conversation.
Student Organization Spotlight: Remote Area Medical
Washington and Lee’s chapter of Remote Area Medical takes students to remote rural areas to provide medical services and gain valuable practical experience along the way.
Special Collections Exhibit Showcases Mock Convention Memories
Washington and Lee University’s Special Collections and Archives has been working with the 2024 Mock Convention to debut an exhibit showcasing extraordinary items from past conventions.
Jaden Keuhner ’24 leaves a legacy honoring Gold Star families
Keuhner helped establish a memorial at Jordan’s Point dedicated to veterans killed in the line of duty and their families.
Greek Councils Connect Campus Through Fun and Philanthropy
Washington and Lee’s Interfraternity Council, National Panhellenic Conference and National Pan-Hellenic Council focus on community-building, education and fundraising throughout the year.
United in Service
Washington and Lee students are making a dynamic impact in the community through National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations.
Mock Con’s Presidential Gala Creates Convention Buzz
The 28th Mock Convention’s Presidential Gala on Nov. 12 offered the campus a glimpse of the upcoming excitement for the 2024 mock presidential convention.
The Space to Be Brave
W&L’s recent staging of ‘Speech & Debate’ brought its cast, crew and audience an opportunity to engage with an innovative, collaborative approach to theater.
Emerging into Leadership
Hamza Zia '26 is using his leadership skills to make a global impact.
Soaking Up the Sun
W&L’s new offsite solar array, now fully operational, represents the university’s biggest leap to date toward an energy-independent future.
W&L Students Curate Fall Art Exhibition
“Mohammad Omer Khalil: Musings,” co-curated by four Washington and Lee students as part of a seminar course in museum studies, will be on display in the Watson Galleries Sept. 28, 2023 through June 1, 2024.
Giving First-Year Students An Edge
Washington and Lee's Leading Edge program welcomed the Class of 2027 to campus with dynamic programs designed to build community.
Lending a Helping Hand
Washington and Lee students gain new perspectives after internships through the Shepherd Program.
W&L Around the World
Washington and Lee students explored the world this summer thanks to grant funding opportunities through the Center for International Education.
‘After Class’ Podcast Features Tom Camden
"W&L After Class" invites listeners to join conversations with W&L's expert faculty about their teaching, research and passion projects.
W&L After Class Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Rob Fure
"W&L After Class" invites listeners to join conversations with W&L's expert faculty about their teaching, research and passion projects.
Collection Connections
Washington and Lee’s Museum Artist-in-Residence Program welcomed photographer Stephanie Shih to campus in May to create new work based on the Museums’ art collection.
The Road Less Traveled
Washington and Lee’s Class of 2023 includes nine recipients of the Certificate of International Immersion awarded by W&L’s Center for International Education.
Playing It Forward
Washington and Lee seniors David Onyejekwe ’23, Jake McCabe ’23 and Bailey Keel ’23 have created lasting connections with the local community as volunteer coaches for Lex Lax youth lacrosse.
W&L’s DeLaney Center Launches Research Project on Black Women and Desegregation
The DeLaney Center’s latest research project connects current students with a rich legacy.
New Exhibition Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
“OPEN FLOWERS BEAR FRUIT” opens May 1 in the McCarthy Gallery in Holekamp Hall.
Staniar Gallery Presents Delilah Montoya: Contemporary Casta Portraiture
The solo exhibition will run from April 24 to May 25 in Staniar Gallery inside Washington and Lee University’s Lenfest Center for the Arts.
W&L Recognizes Student Leaders in Annual Leadership Excellence Awards
The Leadership Excellence Awards give recognition and thanks to nominated students and organizations for their many efforts on W&L’s campus.
W&L Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Michael Hill
"W&L After Class" invites listeners to join conversations with W&L's expert faculty about their teaching, research and passion projects.
Student Organization Spotlight: Fancy Dress
The Fancy Dress committee works year-round to ensure this cherished campus tradition continues.
Museums at W&L Expands Its Collection
W&L’s most recent museum exhibition, “Mother Clay: The Pottery of Three Pueblo Women,” brought new artists into the university’s collection and connected the campus community in unexpected ways.
Student Organization Spotlight: Mock Convention
Mock Convention is gathering steam as the organization prepares for its Spring Kickoff event on March 21.
Learning to Swim
Tetiana Kozachanska ’26 is taking full advantage of her first year at Washington and Lee.
W&L Dialogues on the Future of AI
Faculty and staff dive into conversation and collaboration in response to ChatGPT and other emerging technologies.
Maximizing Her Network
Avalon Pernell ’23 credits the mentorship she received on campus as she launches her career in business journalism.
Student Organization Spotlight: English for Speakers of Other Languages
For more than 20 years, ESOL volunteers have participated in language and literacy work in the Lexington-Rockbridge area and beyond.
Finding Their Passions on the Podium
W&L’s choral conducting mentorship program helps students find and follow their passions through music and mentorship.
W&L After Class Podcast Begins Its Fourth Season
The monthly podcast explores Washington and Lee faculty's research, teaching and passion projects.
W&L’s Greek Leadership Institute Returns for Its Second Year
Washington and Lee’s second annual Greek Leadership Institute provides students with foundational leadership skills and a chance to connect before formal recruitment begins.
Building Her W&L Experience
Sadie Charles Calame ’23 has built a well-rounded college experience through campus and community involvement.
ESOL Hosts Holiday Gathering
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) invites the community to a holiday gathering on Dec. 5.
From Screen to Square Film Screening: Hidden Figures
The upcoming screening is the second installment in the DeLaney Center's ongoing film series.
W&L Celebrates National First-Generation Student Day
The Office of Inclusion and Engagement organized and hosted events to mark the occasion in collaboration with the Office of Alumni and Career Services and the Harte Center for Teaching and Learning.
W&L’s University Singers Win Multiple Awards at City of Derry International Choir Festival
University Singers placed third in the festival’s International Open Competition and received the prestigious Visit Derry Award for their final performance.
Building ‘Comunidad’
The Nuestro Hogar Latino theme house's new location accommodates more students and offers expanded space for programming.
W&L Presents DeLaney Center’s Film Series
The first From Screen to Square event will take place on Monday, Nov. 7.
Victoria Ferguson to Speak at Second Annual Indigenous Community Meal
Dinner attendees are invited to sample an indigenous menu during a guided discussion on Nov. 14.
New Spaces in Elrod Commons
The recent renovation of the second and third floors of Elrod Commons has provided staff and students with new and improved workspaces.
New Plaques Dedicated at the Memorial Gateway
Four Washington and Lee alumni were honored on Friday, Oct. 21, during a ceremony dedicating the installation of three plaques on the university’s Memorial Gateway.
W&L’s Bonner Program Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Alumni and friends of the Bonner Program are invited to a reception in Mattingly House during Young Alumni Weekend.
W&L Choral Program to Hold Parents and Family Weekend Concert
Join members of the W&L choral program for a Parents and Family Weekend choral concert on Sept. 30, at 8 p.m. in Wilson Concert Hall.
W&L Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
The Comunidad Latina Estudiantil has planned and organized numerous events in collaboration with the Office of Inclusion and Engagement.
Summer Opportunities: Off the Beaten Path
Washington and Lee students blazed their own trails this summer to pursue their passions.
Washington and Lee Welcomes the Class of 2026
The university’s first-year class represents 26 countries and 43 U.S. states.
W&L’s Staniar Gallery Presents Fall 2022 Programs and Exhibitions
The first of three fall exhibitions at Washington and Lee University’s Staniar Gallery is now open to the public.
Museums at W&L: Fall 2022 Programs and Exhibitions
The Museums at W&L invite the public to their opening reception for "Museum Menageries" on Sept. 15 at 6 p.m.
W&L ESOL Hosts Summer Enrichment Program
Programa SOL, a three-week program for local bilingual youth, focused on language and literacy development, swimming lessons, active games and visits with community partners.
W&L Celebrates Another Year of Fellowship Success
Another record-setting year for nationally competitive fellowships at W&L can be attributed to forward-thinking educators, hard-working students and an encouraging fellowships director.
Thank you, University Facilities!
W&L Facilities staff work hard all year round, but during spring and summer, they put in extra time to make sure special events go off without a hitch.
Science Advisory Board Funds New Student Opportunities Endowment
The STEM-focused endowment will support internships, research opportunities, academic conference costs and other student experiences.
Washington and Lee Graduates 444 Students at 235th Commencement
In his remarks, President Will Dudley urged the Class of 2022 to carry forward the lessons they’ve learned and make a positive impact in their future communities.
W&L to Match 100% of Electricity Use with Solar Energy
A new deal will establish an offsite solar farm from which W&L will purchase energy equivalent to 100% of campus electricity use, allowing the university to lower greenhouse gas emissions, save money and close in on its goal of carbon neutrality.
W&L Athletes Partner with Boxerwood
Washington and Lee athletic teams partnered with Boxerwood’s COREworks program on community projects to offset carbon emissions in Rockbridge County.
Community Cupboards Collaboration Addresses Food Insecurity
The recent Community Cupboards collaboration with the Virginia Cooperative Extension offered students the opportunity to tackle food insecurity from a cross-disciplinary perspective.
Making Space for Mindfulness
Washington and Lee students can now explore the Headspace app’s mental health and wellness features thanks to the generous support of alumni Greg and Kelly Golub.
Pass the Plate Celebrates Cultural Heritage Through Food
The Weinstein Scholar annual program invited students to take a culinary trip around the world without leaving the Washington and Lee campus.
W&L Celebrates Brain Awareness Week with Local Elementary School Students
Students from W&L’s Neuroscience Program hosted an event for local elementary students on March 18.
The Flow of Influence
After receiving a great deal of support from upperclassmen at Washington and Lee University, Hannah Puckett ’23 pays it forward by dedicating her time to mentoring and counseling first-year students.
Stepping Up to the Plate
Mitchell Salvino ’23 is spearheading a fundraiser with his W&L baseball teammates to benefit the Angel Fund.
Meet a W&L Scholar: Lane Johansen ’22
Johansen plans to head to Eastern Europe after graduation to serve Ukrainian refugees.
A World of Possibility
Between the classroom and her community volunteer work, Katherine Ho '23 has built a W&L experience that is already paying off in the career world.
W&L Community Reacts to Invasion of Ukraine
Members of the Washington and Lee University community are responding to last month’s incursion by offering educational opportunities and raising funds for relief efforts.
W&L Students Form Blue Ridge Mile Clinic
The clinic is a Lexington-based program run by W&L students that partners with Virginia's Drive to Work initiative to help low-income or previously incarcerated individuals gain or restore their driving privileges.
‘A Constant Friend’
Ahead of Black Alumni Weekend 2022 and the 50th anniversary of the Black Ball, founding members of the Student Association of Black Unity are reviving an emergency student fund in memory of their late mentor and friend Marjorie Poindexter.
Creating Community
As part of its 2021-22 lecture series on daily ethics, the Roger Mudd Center for Ethics at Washington and Lee University partnered with Staniar Gallery and invited community members to participate in a collaborative art project called the Daily Ethics Mosaic, which is now on display in Wilson Hall's Lykes Atrium.
W&L Hosts Inaugural Greek Leadership Institute
The two-day training provided leadership development opportunities designed specifically for W&L’s Greek community leaders.
Making the Call to Give Back
John Adekola ’24 sees his role with Phonathon as a chance to make a difference at W&L.
Thank You, Dining Services!
In a special edition of Scene on Campus, we shine a light on our Dining Services staff and all the beautiful food they serve with love during the holiday season.
‘The Honor of Learning’
Lauren Hoaglund '22 has parlayed her passion for medieval and Renaissance history, literature, classics and theater into a busy but rewarding four years at W&L.
Turkeypalooza!
The annual Turkeypalooza event at Washington and Lee University's Campus Kitchen involves hours of volunteer work to help make a happy Thanksgiving for members of the local community.
Welcome Home, Alumni!
W&L grads who came back for Young Alumni Weekend caught up with friends, visited favorite spots on campus, and reminisced about their time in Lexington.
‘Committed to This Cause’
Against a national backdrop of mental health concerns, Washington and Lee's University Counseling Center recently rolled out new programs to increase the ways in which students can reach out for help.
Dedicated to Listening
At W&L, student volunteers in the peer counseling program, Washingtonian Society and Active Minds supplement University Counseling Center services by offering a caring ear to fellow students.
W&L Celebrates First-Generation College Students
The university recently celebrated National First-Generation College Student Day to recognize student achievement and remind the community about support resources for first-generation and low-income students at W&L.
W&L Honors Veterans, Remembers Friend
At W&L's annual Veterans Day gathering, attendees honored all veterans and remembered longtime event organizer Paul Burns, who passed away in September.
‘Living Honestly’
Ten years after helping found the LGBTQ Resource Center at W&L, Chris Washnock ’12 has carried its community-building lessons into a career in faith-based advocacy.
Program Spotlight: The Outing Club
For many students at Washington and Lee, the Outing Club is about more than an outdoor adventure — it's about finding a place that feels a little bit like home.
Meet the Class of 2025!
Washington and Lee's newest class moves in, talks about why they chose W&L, and gets ready to rock this academic year.
Welcome Back, Students!
The W&L campus is buzzing with life again as students arrive for athletic practice, Pre-Orientation trips and other adventures to usher in Fall Term.
W&L’s Recipe for Fellowship Success
A record-setting year for nationally competitive fellowship awards at Washington and Lee University can be attributed to forward-thinking educators, hard-working students and a persistent, encouraging fellowships director.
W&L Expands Friendship Family Program
The initiative matches participating W&L students with local host families interested in connecting.
A Commitment to Service
Second Lieutenant Chris Woodings ’21 received the Captain Jay W. Stull Memorial Award in recognition of his determination and strength of character.
On the Job with W&L’s Compost Crew
The dedicated students on the crew are making W&L a more sustainable place.
Juneteenth Celebration Springs from Community-wide Collaboration
Organizations across the Lexington and Rockbridge County areas have planned a Juneteenth event that will include an art show, live music, a free raffle and more.
Class of 2021: A Look Back
As we bid farewell (for now) to the Class of 2021, we look back at their very first days on the W&L campus.
Mapping the Past
As part of a community-based learning course in collaboration with Rockbridge Regional Tourism and the Rockbridge Historical Society, Washington and Lee University students researched and mapped Black-owned businesses that thrived in Lexington during the Jim Crow era.
New Exhibit Illustrates Perilous Path to Opportunity
Hostile Terrain 94, a global pop-up exhibit that takes a powerful look at the human cost of undocumented migration at the U.S. southern border, opened at W&L this week after years of planning and collaboration.
Culinary Showcase Highlights Staff Experiences
A special dinner series at The Marketplace this academic year has featured menus created by Dining Services employees to pay homage to places they’ve lived or studied in culinary school.
A Place That Checked All the Boxes
Rafay Hassan '22 was looking for a liberal arts university that would give him individualized attention and put his critical thinking skills to the test. He found that and more at W&L.
Shepherd Cohorts Give First-Year Students a Taste of Service
Two new first-year cohorts, #Hungerfighters and Good Nabors, educate first-year students about the Shepherd Program, introduce them to service learning, help them make friends and set them up for further involvement in the program.
Banding Together
Students and faculty in the W&L Music Department refused to let COVID-19 silence them, instead embracing creative protocols to continue making music together in person.
An Affection for Connections
W&L has allowed Christopher Watt '21 to meet other members of the community and find a future career where three of his passions converge.
Cultivating A Community
Renovations to the John W. Elrod Commons will create spaces to expand collaborations and conversations.
New Walls Bring Climbers Together Again
COVID-19 distancing made it difficult for climbers to meet at the Outing Club Barn, but three new climbing walls inside the Pavilion mean students can get together to train once again.
A Center for Positive Change
W&L’s Office of Inclusion and Engagement is expanding, reaching an unprecedented number of people with its programming.
International Students Bond Over Unusual Term
At the start of the academic year, 17 first-year international students began their W&L experience in Scotland. Today, they are taking courses in Lexington as a unique group of friends.
‘Giving Everyone an Opportunity’
Hannah Freibert '21 interviews Mike White '10, program associate for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a nonprofit that works to improve health care in America.
ODK to Initiate Three Honorary, 50 Student Members at 2021 Convention
New members will be inducted into the national leadership honor society at W&L’s Founders Day/ODK convention, which will take place in a virtual format on Jan. 19 at 5 p.m.
Community-Based Learning Thrives Amid COVID-19
The pandemic has presented challenges to working and learning within the community, but virtual and distanced projects have allowed those partnerships to continue to bear fruit this year.
‘A Sense of Meaning’
At W&L, Lorena Terroba Urruchua ’21 found her purpose — helping people with disabilities — at the intersection of psychology, Romance languages and poverty studies.
W&L’s Hillel House Marks 10 Years as a Space Celebrating Jewish Life
A decade after the building's dedication, W&L Hillel shines brighter than ever.
W&L Students Partner with Project Horizon to Make Life Skills Book
Students in Professor Dayo Abah’s Principles of Public Relations class worked with a Lexington nonprofit to make a life skills book for clients who are trying to get back on their feet.
Finding Ways to Give Back
Jerónimo Reyes '21 says he is so immensely grateful for the gifts in his life, including a QuestBridge scholarship to W&L, that he wants to become a doctor and devote his career to helping others.
Together in Spirit for Veterans Day
Although W&L's annual Veterans Day gathering won't take place this year because of COVID-19, the university would like to salute all veterans.
Student Social Media Team Takes On Campus Happiness
The students in charge of Washington and Lee University’s WLULEX social media accounts are taking on an unusual challenge in 2020: finding ways to increase campus happiness during a pandemic.
Classmates Lead Fundraising Effort to Remember Kathy Boozer Boone ’95
In honor of what would have been her 25th reunion, Boone's family and friends celebrated her legacy through gifts that will have a tangible impact on W&L.
W&L Hillel Wins Election Contest
Hillel International’s civic engagement initiative challenged campuses across the country to get students engaged in the presidential election, and W&L Hillel led the way.
Minority Student-Athletes Form New Campus Group
The Perry Minority Athlete Coalition aims to boost the W&L community.
Courting Success
Erin Hughes '21 wants to use lessons learned in the classroom and on the basketball court to fight for systemic change in the world.
Boneyard Becomes Improvised Training Ground
W&L’s strength and conditioning program adapts to the COVID-19 era.
A Rewarding Experience
Enuma Anekwe-Desince '22 has found her niche at Washington and Lee University through her involvement in the Advanced Immersion and Mentoring Program, leadership roles in student organizations, and work as a research assistant in the sociology and psychology departments.
Student Life on ‘Mars’
The challenges of student life during the COVID-19 pandemic are pervasive, but students—and the W&L staff supporting them—are rising to the occasion.
W&L Faculty Embrace Hybrid Instruction
The COVID-19 pandemic has failed to hinder Washington and Lee University professors, who have adapted creatively to teach both in person and virtually this term.
‘Preserving as Much as We Can’
The Washington and Lee University library is working to preserve documents relating to COVID-19 and diversity and inclusion discussions.
W&L Hosts Public Panel as Part of Yearlong ‘Activism and Black Life’ Series
The panel discussion, titled "Antiracism, White Activists, and Black Freedom," is free and open to the public to watch virtually.
Mudd Center Announces 2020-21 Lecture Series on Global Ethics
“Global Ethics in the 21st Century: Opportunities and Challenges,” a collaboration between the Mudd Center for Ethics and the Center for International Education, kicks off Sept. 24 with a keynote address by former U.S. ambassador and Sewanee University President Reuben E. Brigety.
W&L Professor, Student Co-Direct Domestic Violence Documentary
Professor Stephanie Sandberg and Nolan Zunk ’22 co-directed “Intimate Violence,” which will be screened at Hull’s Drive-in to raise money for Project Horizon.
AIM Summer Program Doubles in Size
Forty incoming first-year students participated in this year’s virtual Advanced Immersion and Mentoring (AIM) Scholars Summer Program, giving them an auspicious start to their W&L careers and a chance to help their peers this fall.
Africana Studies Program Launches Yearlong Series
The Africana Studies Program at W&L, in partnership with the Rupert H. Johnson Jr. Program in Leadership and Integrity, will host a series of events focused on activism and Black life. It kicks off Aug. 26 with a panel discussion featuring three W&L faculty members.
‘Committed to Supporting and Listening’
As Executive Committee president for the 2020-21 school year, Chase Calhoun '21 hopes to protect the Honor System and make a positive impact in areas of racial inequality and systemic racism.
Update on the Work of the Special Committee of the Board of Trustees
This letter serves as an update on the special board committee formed in July to review issues relating to diversity and inclusion on campus, including the university's name.
President’s Welcome for Fall 2020
Returning to campus in these circumstances will challenge us all, but teaching and learning together is what we do best, and it has never been more important.
Becoming a Global Citizen
Studying philosophy and Arabic, traveling to Morocco and Beirut, and working with Professor Anthony Edwards to translate a Beiruti book have helped Tanner Hall '21 understand and appreciate other cultures.
Prepping for a Safe Return
From installing hand sanitizer stations to adjusting HVAC systems, University Facilities staff have played an essential role in preparing the W&L campus for Fall Term 2020.
Language Academies Adjust to Virtual Summer
The Virginia Governor's World Language Academies this year celebrated the 10th year at W&L and adapted to virtual programming in light of the global pandemic.
Jewish Fellowship Thrives in Virtual Times
With help from Hillel International, Director of Jewish Life Maggie Shapiro Haskett has been able to successfully adapt programming to suit the new normal.
W&L Football Raises Funds for NAACP’s DeLaney Grant
The team organized a 5K in response to racial injustice and to benefit an NAACP grant named for professor of history emeritus Ted DeLaney.
‘The Labor of Liberty’
Five professors from Washington and Lee University held an online panel offering “Perspectives on Black Protest: Comprehending the Current Crisis.”
W&L Welcomes Students Back to Campus for Fall Term
This message summarizes the critical elements of our plan.
Summer of Service in Lexington
When her summer research trip to Nepal was canceled because of COVID-19, Danika Brockman went to work for the Rockbridge Area Relief Association, where she helps with the food pantry.
W&L Celebrates Reversal of ICE Guidelines
Immigrations and Customs Enforcement guidelines announced in July would have required international students to leave the U.S. if they were forced by COVID-19 to take only online courses.
Tackling Social Issues
Nick Watson '22 is spending the summer working on housing issues as part of his Shepherd internship with the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity in Vermont.
Facilitating Community-Driven Communication
The ESOL program at W&L, founded in 2001 to facilitate communication in the local community, now serves dozens of non-native English speakers each year with teaching, tutoring, translation and interpretation services.
Internship Honors Dickovick’s Profound Legacy at W&L
A group of his former students and colleagues established the James Tyler Dickovick Internship in International Affairs, Global Political Economy and the Public Interest Endowment in his memory.
‘A Real Justice Issue’
Bridget Bartley '21 interviews Shiri Yadlin '12, director of Just Homes, a nonprofit that helps faith communities address homelessness in D.C.
Seeing Students Through Uncertain Times
Washington and Lee University’s Student Affairs staff worked tirelessly to support students through the COVID-19 pandemic and the move to virtual instruction.
Supporting Campus Online
W&L was well prepared for the switch to virtual instruction, thanks to investments made long ago and the people of its Information Technology Services office.
Career Planning During a Pandemic
Career and Professional Development Dean John Jensen '01 and his staff are busy providing career advice for Generals navigating a tricky economic landscape.
A Place to Call Home
Washington and Lee University matches incoming students to halls and roommates by hand to create communities in which students can thrive.
Gunn International Scholarship Expands Worlds
Recipients of the John M. Gunn International Scholarship met with its namesake in February and shared how the program has made a difference in their lives.
W&L Women’s Lacrosse Organizes Run for RARA Virtual 5K
The virtual 5K will benefit the Rockbridge Area Relief Association.
Finding Her Community
When Kara Lough '20 found W&L, she found a supportive environment that allowed her to lead a magazine, study in Italy, work as a photographer and plan a career.
Roll-Up Pianos Help Seniors Graduate
Eight of the 23 students enrolled in music instructor Shuko Watanabe Petty’s Piano I and II classes had no piano at home. When instruction went online, she found a way to help.
United by Dance
When the 25 members of W&L’s Repertory Dance Company were dispersed by COVID-19, director Jenefer Davies found a creative way for them to perform together again.
Bridging the Distance
W&L’s admissions office is replacing in-person events canceled due to COVID-19 with personalized online outreach.
Stepping Up to Help Out
During the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Washington and Lee University community are finding ways to lend a hand with community relief efforts.
‘It’s OK to Be You’
Final performances of "Considering Matthew Shepard" had to be canceled because of COVID-19, but the University Singers will never forget the powerful experience of telling Shepard's story.
W&L Donates PPE to Local Providers
Amid a national shortage of PPE, W&L employees put the IQ Center’s 3D printers to work making face shields and mask strap holders for local health care workers.
Meals4Meds
Amanda Basham Atkinson '04 is supporting local restaurants and health care professionals in Fort Worth, Texas.
How W&L Prepared for Online Success
Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, Washington and Lee University’s CARPE and Academic Technologies offered expertise and resources to faculty preparing for online courses.
Community Projects a Win-Win for Lexington and W&L
Washington and Lee University's Office of Community-Based Learning has partnered with Lexington on projects that provide real-world learning experiences for students while also advancing the city's goals.
Black FLEX Conference Brings W&L Alumni Back to Mentor Region’s Students
W&L’s first Black Future Leaders Experience (FLEX) conference brought alumni and staff together to mentor students from across central Virginia on how to thrive in white spaces, navigate politics and serve as leaders.
W&L Students Raise Money for Coronavirus Relief
In February, students from PAACE and SAIL raised over $650 from around 50 donors to support coronavirus relief in China.
Poetry Night Kicks Off Black History Month at W&L
A student-led annual celebration of black literary culture opened the Student Association for Black Unity’s programming for Black History Month at Washington and Lee University.
‘Passion for Service’
Working with Campus Kitchen at Washington and Lee has made Hannah Witherell '20 determined to continue helping others after she leaves W&L.
W&L Honors Veterans at Annual Event
Veterans gathered in front of Lee Chapel on Veterans Day to share details of their service and join in a prayer for all service members.
New Group Celebrates Native Americans at W&L
The Native American Cohort, which was created by faculty and staff with native heritage, aims to illuminate Native American history and culture, beginning with special events for Native American Heritage Month in November.
W&L Updates Climate Action Plan
Washington and Lee University has already exceeded carbon-reduction goals for 2013 and 2020. The latest updates keep the university on track to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Lessons Learned on the Mat
Washington and Lee University Wrestling has teamed up with a nonprofit called Beat the Streets to educate and empower young men and women through the sport of wrestling.
Lunch with a Side of Love
Through coursework and connections, Hannah Archer '20 helped to create a school food service program to ensure that local children have enough to eat during the summer.
Community-Based Learning Tackles Food Insecurity
W&L courses in economics and biology used community-based learning to engage in partnerships and make an impact on food insecurity at a local level.
The Power of Change
The W&L Village PowerDown Challenge called for students to reduce electricity consumption for a month, and they came through with energy and creativity to win a grand prize that included a therapy dog visit.
Sankofa House: A Place of Belonging
Community and social support form the heart of W&L's newest theme house.
