For Washington and Lee University students, the Honor System is more than a set of expectations to live by throughout their four years on campus — it is a symbol of the values of trust, honor and integrity graduates develop and carry throughout their lives.
For Washington and Lee University alumna Gambrill Corckran Robinson ’97, giving back is both a reflection of gratitude and a deeply personal commitment to helping students navigate some of their most formative years.
Demolition of the Early-Fielding Memorial Building will begin in mid-June, and construction of the new admissions and financial aid building will begin this fall.
Drawing on his own unconventional career path, Hollis Taggart ’71 encourages W&L students to find what brings them joy.
The Cadaver Society’s commitment to the Leading Lives of Consequence campaign will name the new terrace at Founders Hall and bolster the W&L Fund.
Growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, Bill Crawford ’76 liked math and the outdoors but didn’t yet know how far either of those things would take him.
As his 50th reunion weekend at Washington and Lee University School of Law approached, Jon Spear ’76L reflected on how his three years at W&L shaped his personal and professional life.
Alumni returned to campus to celebrate W&L’s annual spring gathering.
For more than 40 years, Kathekon has connected Washington and Lee students and alumni through service, mentorship and campus traditions.
The Reverend Dane Boston ’08 can pinpoint the exact moment he found his calling in the church, and it was in Fletcher Otey Thomas Professor in Bible Alexandra Brown’s New Testament 101 class at Washington and Lee University.
Alumni from the classes ending in 1 and 6 are invited to return to campus April 30-May 3 for a weekend of celebration and support of Washington and Lee.
"Not only has my perspective evolved, but I feel encouraged to pursue my passions to help others and make a lasting impact." - Allison Young ’28
Washington and Lee University’s library system celebrates a quarter millennium of scholarship.
“Of the many memories that have been with me since my days at W&L, perhaps the most striking and valuable are connected with the Honor System and our Speaking Tradition… I am grateful to W&L for this training and so much more.”
With four generations at Washington and Lee University — and counting — the Ball family is invested in the institution in every sense.
From answering philanthropy-themed trivia aboard a golf cart to searching campus landmarks in a scavenger hunt, Washington and Lee University students explored how generosity shapes their campus experience during the annual Philanthropy Education Week (PEW), March 9–12.
Professor Brian Murchison will retire from full-time teaching at the end of the academic year.
Washington and Lee University students have spent more than 100 years turning gratitude into generosity and inspiring future generations to do the same.
Light’s recent $100,000 commitment to establish the Henry D. and Angelica Didier Light Law Scholarship, along with her planned gift and decades-long support of the university, reflects what she describes as a lifelong responsibility to give back.
In the intricate network that ties W&L graduates together in business and in friendship, the Honor System acts as a uniting thread long after the last non-proctored exam.
Tom Millhiser ’81L and his wife Shelly have established an endowment to fund the purchase of the W&L Law walking sticks.
Emily Pogue and Amanda Minix co-authored an article on engaging young alumni in leadership-level annual giving.
“There was never any question that Dick’s legacy would go to W&L,” said Robin Kreitler. “He loved W&L and began giving back at an early age.”
Together, we are ensuring that Washington and Lee University continues to educate young women and men who truly lead lives of consequence.
Phil Marella '81 is the founder of Dana's Angels Research Trust, an organization dedicated to funding research on Niemann-Pick disease type C.
For Thomas “T.” ’99 and Tasha ’00 Blair, leadership has always been a shared pursuit, rooted in intellectual curiosity, steady integrity and a drive to give back.
The W&L network is perhaps most illustrative in the early-career assistance and opportunities our alumni provide to current students.
Eric Herrera ’20 was recently named to the 2026 Forbes 30 Under 30 list for his work with chemical manufacturing startup MaverickX, which he cofounded with Jesse Evans ’20.
Now in his second year, Mouton’s W&L experience has fostered his self-assurance, adaptability and global awareness.
The Bolands have dedicated their time and energy to building a more equitable economic system.
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster bestowed Folsom with the state’s highest civilian honor.
Allison Glover ’28 did not have a high school counselor to help her research colleges.
For Captain Michael Holifield ’89, being a career public servant is about lifting and supporting the people around him to the best of his ability.
The new building that serves the Williams School of Commerce, Economics and Politics provides expanded space for state-of-the-art classrooms and collaborative gathering areas.
The Tom Wolfe ’51 Reading Room in Special Collections and Archives received several modern upgrades to better serve the research needs of students, faculty and the community.
Over 200 people gathered Oct. 18 for the official dedication of the Lindley Center for Student Wellness, which honors the legacy of Dr. Lindley Spaht Dodson ’99.
Nick Peacher ’15 and Elizabeth Bucklee Peacher ’13 strive to give back through volunteering and philanthropy to ensure others have access to the formative W&L experience they cherish.
I know I would not have had the richness in my life and the opportunities without Washington and Lee. So, it only made sense that I paid that back.
I feel very fortunate and honored that my parents found a way to go more than the extra mile to give back to a place so special to our family and to make this gift in a way that celebrates different pieces of our W&L experience.
For nearly 100 years, W&L has benefited from engaged alumni volunteering to connect with their classmates.
The weekend marked a near record-breaking celebration for the classes of 1975 and earlier.
For Sam Tannahill ’91, W&L provided a foundation of integrity, leadership and intellectual curiosity that have guided his personal and professional life.
The Central and Eastern European correspondent’s article was a part of a Wall Street Journal series investigating Elon Musk that won best national reporting.
Kate LeMasters ’15 cultivated a career of addressing public health inequalities with marginalized societies.
I’m absolutely convinced that all my classmates from the Class of 1998 are leading, in one way or another, lives of consequence.
"Ralph commented when he made his gift that he hopes it will inspire others to follow suit."
Inspired by Washington and Lee University while still in high school, Frankie Maloof ’25 embraced his W&L experience through leadership, honor and integrity.
Wilson Hallett ’15 and Jillian Katterhagen ’15 will be recognized during Young Alumni Weekend.
Lauren Morina serves as director and corporate counsel for Hibbett Retail, a leading athletic fashion retailer.
Several campus projects have been completed in time for Fall Term.
The class includes 131 students from 28 states and D.C. and four countries, representing 96 undergraduate institutions.
“I want to use my education to uplift others,” she said. “It’s about making my corner of the world better, no matter which direction my career path takes me.”
When Jackson Stokes ’25 walked across the stage in May to accept his Washington and Lee University diploma, he was certain that while he was leaving the campus behind, the community would travel with him for the rest of his life.
The W&L Fund, the university’s annual giving program, reached new heights, surpassing its $10.65 million goal with $10,891,247 — the largest amount in W&L’s history and marks a 4.4% increase over last year.
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.
Dr. Charles Frankum ’90 lays claim to being one of the few surgeons in the country who flies himself to appointments at rural hospitals.
At the 2025 undergraduate Commencement, Barbara Jenkins ’92L, Kate Jenkins Howard ’99 and Kylie Therrien ’25 became the first female triple generation legacy at Washington and Lee University.
Washington and Lee University and Lexington Golf and Country Club (LGCC) are collaborating to undertake a complete renovation of the club’s golf course and ancillary facilities, which will support W&L’s top-performing golf teams and revitalize LGCC — Virginia’s second-oldest country club — to benefit the Lexington-Rockbridge community.
Founding alumni launch challenge gift and campaign to support Huntley Hall and student experience.
When David Peterson, professor of history emeritus, died in 2023, he left a bequest to Washington and Lee University’s History Department. The unrestricted gift allowed the department to utilize the funds as it determined would best serve today’s students.
As Yuchen Qian ’25 prepares to graduate with degrees in politics and philosophy and a minor in German, he reflects on the many facets that shaped his Washington and Lee University experience and on his less-than-linear path to get here.
Washington and Lee University has announced a $30 million anonymous gift to create Founders Hall, a new state-of-the-art building that will bring together the offices of Admissions, Financial Aid and the Johnson Program in Leadership and Integrity.
The former provost at Southern Virginia University begins his W&L appointment on July 1.
Alumni returned to campus to celebrate W&L’s annual spring Alumni Weekend.
Tolu Olubunmi ’02 has made her journey to citizenship an opportunity to inspire and serve others.
Following Washington and Lee University School of Law’s record-breaking fundraising year, the Board of Trustees approved a new goal of $55 million for the school last October for Leading Lives of Consequence: The Campaign for Washington and Lee.
If I can create opportunities for people the way W&L created opportunities for me, I’m happy to do it.
Studying abroad was the best and most impactful educational experience I had. The person I am today was forged in the experiences I had abroad.
Brandon Chalk '00 followed his love for the outdoors all around the world, summiting the highest peaks on each of the seven continents with his wife, Kristine Chalk.
Burr Datz ’75 has been a pillar of support – and supplier of stories and songs – to the W&L community for five decades.
We’re so grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support that recognizes what John, Nell and others built and helps ensure that top-notch archaeological work will continue at W&L in the years to come
Robert Balentine '79 and his wife, Betty, are recipients of the 2025 Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal from the Garden Club of America for their preservation work at the Southern Highlands Reserve.
Richard And Wimberly McPhail P’24 share their journey of giving, leading and forming bonds at Washington and Lee.
The Class of 2025’s Senior Gift Committee co-chairs have already sailed past their monetary goal as they look toward Commencement.
As Andrew Barnett ’02 and his wife, Tori, contemplated how they could play a role in the lives of future Washington and Lee University students, they knew they wanted to make a gift that exemplified their values.
Washington and Lee University’s faculty are dedicated to helping their students reach their potential.
The Williams School and Lindley Center remain on schedule for completion before Fall Term 2025, while several campus improvement projects will begin this summer.
Alumni from the classes of 1975-2010 are invited to return to campus May 1-4 for a weekend of celebration and the presentation of the 25th and 50th reunion gifts.
The research and reading room for the Special Collections and Archives will be updated and renamed in honor of Tom Wolfe ’51.
On Oct. 25, 2024, Billy Webster ’79, chair of Leading Lives of Consequence: The Campaign for Washington and Lee, addressed alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends during the campaign launch celebration on campus. Below is an excerpt from his remarks.
Washington and Lee University celebrated its third annual Philanthropy Education Week (PEW), March 10-13, highlighting the transformative impact of philanthropic contributions on the student experience.
Stephen Welker ’05 honors his past by shaping the future.
Cory Allison '94, P'26 hopes to change the way hospitals and doctors approach surgical prep.
From rehabilitating its finances to reviving endangered species, Keith Sanford ’80 transformed the Tennessee Aquarium’s future.
Dr. Matthew Sackett ’90, P’18 is on the cutting edge of cardiac treatments.
The four-day event emphasizes the vital role of philanthropic contributions in enhancing the student experience at W&L.
Howard Capito ’68 established the Christopher D. Connors Endowment for Earth and Environmental Geoscience to honor the “living legend” and support student internships in geology and related fields.
Hank Ingram '13 recently established the Ingram Family Student Opportunity Endowment to further community-based learning opportunities for W&L students in Rockbridge County.
After 38 years in the federal government, Mark Bradley ’78 has made sure to think beyond himself and serve the greater good.
Whether he is trying a case or drumming with a jazz band, Curtis Joseph ’93, ’96L doesn’t miss a beat.
The program offers staff a 30-day leave, with full pay, to advance some aspect of their career and work at the university.
Trustee issues challenge for support of the project.
Past presidents of Washington and Lee University’s Executive Committee reflect on how it prepared them for a life of values-driven leadership.
As a radiation oncologist, Dr. Olivia Claire Ball ’09 cherishes the humanity and connection she cultivates with her patients.
As founder and president of Wilderness Leadership and Learning, Abraham has impacted hundreds of youths in the D.C. area.
When Nathan Urquhart ’01 visited with some W&L professors on campus, he saw the need for the Williams School facilities expansion firsthand.
The importance of philanthropy is a value that Billy Webster ’79 instilled in his children from a young age.
In 2018, Kathelen and Dan Amos established the John Kyle Spencer Endowed Directorship for Environmental Studies — the first of its kind for an interdisciplinary program at Washington and Lee University.
Washington and Lee University announced on Friday, Oct. 25, the launch of a $650 million comprehensive capital campaign, Leading Lives of Consequence: The Campaign for Washington and Lee.
Alumnus Bill Miller donates $132 million to expand access and affordability.
Faculty, staff and students are invited to attend a free luncheon Oct. 24 on Cannan Green to celebrate the campaign’s kickoff.
Pat and Marshall Nuckols’ estate gift supports scholarships and student opportunities.
The James D. Farrar Jr. ’74 and Katharine Capito Farrar Endowment supports the Athletics Hall of Fame and will help fund athletics-related student opportunities.
Anne Faircloth and Fred Beaujeu-Dufour share their thoughts as Parents Leadership Council (PLC) chairs.
The Jeffrey G. Lawson ’68 Endowment funds leadership roles in the DeLaney Center.
The enduring legacy of W&L's Class Agent volunteers.
Continued support from the Lettie Pate Evans Foundation demonstrates the power of endowed giving.
Clarke family's gift to support Law School financial need
The society amplifies women's philanthropic power.
Matching challenge aims to help alleviate student debt.
The Brian C. Shearer Scholarship Endowment provides opportunities for future generations.
The Matelich Endowment enhances Outing Club experiences.
Washington and Lee's new student wellness center has inspired generous support.
Generous alumni, parents and friends contributed more than $10 million to W&L’s Annual Fund in the 2023-24 fiscal year, achieving the largest Annual Fund in five years.
The second annual Philanthropy Education Week highlighted the impact donations have on the undergraduate experience.
Expanding and enhancing the Williams School’s facilities is a priority of the university’s strategic plan, which calls for strengthened interdisciplinary programs like Entrepreneurship as well as increased offerings for non-majors in the Williams School.
“I felt from Washington and Lee a spirit of gratitude, like the school was happy you decided to join their community.”
Billy Webster ’79 has worn many hats at Washington and Lee throughout the years: student, alumnus, parent, supporter, Trustee and volunteer, to name a few. The stalwart graduate is now taking on, arguably, his most significant role to date — chair of Leading Lives of Consequence, the university’s comprehensive capital campaign.
Dyson Foundation endows director position at the DeLaney Center.
W&L’s Class of 2027 takes part in orientation experiences at no additional cost.
In May, Mary Hipp ’90 said being a member of the second class of women undergraduates at W&L taught her a lot— although she didn’t realize it at the time.
Chrishon McManus ’14L—attorney and competitive swimmer—radiates calm when it counts.
Total giving to all areas reached an impressive $73.9 million, the second highest total in W&L history.
Alexis Yee-Garcia ’01 leads the way in generating greater diversity, equality and engagement in Big Law firms.
Laura Adelman Philipson ’01 and Hayley Huber ’23 discuss their experiences as W&L students.
The campus-wide initiative highlights the relationship between university donations and the undergraduate student experience with a week-long series of events, March 6-9.
Joe Framptom '66 and Nate Unger '24 discuss their experiences as W&L students.
Caroline Boone Mitchell ’89 and Peyton Tysinger ’23 discuss their experiences as W&L students.
Tracey Thornblade Belmont '92 and Posi Oluwakuyide ’24 discuss their experiences as W&L students.
Hardin Marion and Carter Chandler discuss their experiences as W&L students.
Missy Witherow moves on while Sydney Cross is promoted to Director of Annual Giving.
Molly Myers serves as associate director of annual giving.
What started as a “Tale of Two Evans” 33 years ago has sparked a new friendship for first years Max Patterson and Spratt Allison.
Endowment Remembering Jack Vardaman ’62 Will Support W&L Golf Teams
Sanchez plans to pursue graduate study in public policy after graduation.
Bill Benson ’92 worked on NASA’s Space Launch System which will enable astronauts to begin their journey into deep space.
Schwartz hopes to enter the medical field to continue helping people.
Brinker makes her mark on Florence, Italy’s digital history.
The annual event brought 1,800 people to campus.
Wimberly and Richard McPhail P’24 share their thoughts on the W&L Experience, community and the Parents Leadership Council
W&L Library and Institutional History staff joined Mellon-funded initiative On These Grounds with several partner universities to catalog events in enslaved people’s lives.
How one W&L graduate empowers women farmers in Africa.
Kenny Melvin was elected by his peers to serve a two-year term.
A passionate conservationist, Niquole Esters ’04 has crafted complex approaches encompassing multiple countries to improve ocean health and benefit local communities.
The STEM-focused endowment will support internships, research opportunities, academic conference costs and other student experiences.
James Torbert ’23 interviewed Cynthia Cheatham ’07 to learn more about her dedication to Washington and Lee.
Kaylin Jury ’24 interviewed Phifer Helms ’74 to learn more about his service and commitment to Washington and Lee.
Max Weaver ’23 interviewed Andrew Tate ’98 to learn more about his service and commitment to Washington and Lee.
Will Bou ’24 interviewed longtime volunteer Farris Hotchkiss ’58 to learn more about his service and dedication to Washington and Lee.
Smith O’Leary ’23 interviewed Bowen Spottswood ’18 to learn more about her dedication to Washington and Lee.
Margaret Thompson ’24 interviewed Maurice “Moe” Cole ’94 to learn more about his service and commitment to Washington and Lee.
Alex Petras ’24 interviewed Julia Gsell ’18 to learn more about her dedication to Washington and Lee.
Kailyn Jury ’24 interviewed Nelson Bunn ’08 to learn more about his service and commitment to Washington and Lee.
A group of W&L students plan a week-long series of events dedicated to philanthropy education and sharing gratitude.
Mitchell Salvino ’23 is spearheading a fundraiser with his W&L baseball teammates to benefit the Angel Fund.
Johansen plans to head to Eastern Europe after graduation to serve Ukrainian refugees.
Sam Hollis ’51 and Jimmy Gallivan ’51 met at W&L, sparking a friendship spanning 75 years.
Craig Jones has been an active volunteer in his community, particularly the KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools.
John Adekola ’24 sees his role with Phonathon as a chance to make a difference at W&L.
AJ Mabaka '22 plans to attend a graduate program in marine science and conservation policy.
In 1971, Black students founded the Student Association for Black Unity, launching a 50-year tradition of advocacy on campus.
When Tyler Lenczuk ’08 married Danielle Galanti in July 2014, they were given a gift like no other — a named scholarship fund to benefit future Washington and Lee students with financial need.
Looking for older stories? See the complete University Advancement archive.
