From Chance Encounter to Purposeful Path How Ashton Mouton ’28 discovered Washington and Lee and a calling rooted in service, justice and global awareness.

Amanda Minix
January 20, 2026

“By investing in students today, the university shapes leaders who will make the world more inclusive, kinder and stronger.” – Ashton Mouton ’28

Ashton Mouton ’28 became interested in Washington and Lee University while participating in Louisiana Boys State, a leadership development program for high school-aged young men. When a fellow delegate mentioned W&L among his top colleges, Mouton decided to research it for himself and applied.

“I sought a place that would sharpen my mind, steady my voice and strengthen my will to serve,” Mouton said. “I knew Washington and Lee was where I could maximize my potential and grow as a leader.”

His chance encounter proved fortuitous. Now in his second year, Mouton’s W&L experience has fostered his self-assurance, adaptability and global awareness. Before college, he envisioned himself becoming a surgeon. However, after taking a class with Lynny Chin, associate professor of sociology, he shifted his plan in a new direction.

“Her class was powerful and thought-provoking,” Mouton said. “It made me question things that are overlooked and come to the profound realization that everything is interconnected.”

A double major in politics and sociology, Mouton hopes to attend law school after graduation, focusing on constitutional and civil rights law.

“I was raised to lead by serving others,” he said. “A W&L education will equip me with the skills to effect positive change within my community and far beyond.”

During his first year, Mouton served as the Student Association for Black Unity’s treasurer and as a member of the leadership cohort for the DeLaney Center for the study of Southern race relations, culture and politics. Last Spring Term, Mouton traveled to Ghana, West Africa, to work with Trashy Bags Africa, a plastic upcycling company, on producing a documentary series designed to illuminate the plastics pollution crisis facing the globe and its particular impact on developing countries. The revelatory experience further solidified his desire to make a difference through service and amplified his appreciation for those who support an exceptional W&L experience for him and his fellow students.

“By investing in students today, the university shapes leaders who will make the world more inclusive, kinder and stronger,” Mouton said. “I owe a special debt of gratitude to Mr. [Bill] Miller ’72, whose generous support of W&L reflects his conviction that every student deserves a quality education, regardless of socioeconomic status. If given the opportunity to meet him, I would express my gratitude not only in words but by sharing the initiatives and positive contributions I have made on campus. His selflessness has opened doors for students like me to pursue and achieve our ambitions.”