Why I Give | Ken Lane ’64
Why I Give is a series that celebrates the generosity of Washington and Lee University alumni, students, faculty and parents. Discover the many reasons the W&L community supports Leading Lives of Consequence: The Campaign for Washington and Lee and how philanthropy shapes the university’s future while honoring its enduring value.
“I give generously so students can avail themselves of what makes W&L so outstanding among U.S. colleges in character development, academics and student satisfaction.” – Ken Lane ’64
What inspired you to make your first gift to Washington and Lee University, and what motivates you to continue giving?
Ever since I can remember, W&L has been in my blood. My father was president of the Alumni Association in the early 1950s, my two uncles and three cousins are graduates. W&L gave me my first job after graduate school as director of the student center. Through these important years, the university made a formative impact on my life.
How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?
W&L is doing a fantastic job of educating and offering an array of opportunities for students to discover themselves, build a moral foundation and provide both knowledge and opening of doors for satisfactory career choices. I give generously so students can avail themselves of what makes W&L so outstanding among U.S. colleges in character development, academics and student satisfaction.
Is there a particular experience, faculty member or program at W&L that played a meaningful role in your decision to give back?
Trying to find myself in that late adolescent stage of my life was a pressing challenge. I owe a lot to my fraternity brother, Randy Wootten ’64, P’93, P’95, who gifted me in at least two ways. He introduced me to English professor Bill Chaffin, and we became friends in my senior year. Bill was so supportive both that year and years after. Randy also introduced me to a Sunday night discussion group of faculty and students through the Episcopal church. I came to value those relationships and look back on them with gratitude.
What does it mean to you to lead a life of consequence?
In my careers in college work, mental health and 32 years of parish ministry, relationships became a key avenue both for my making a difference and my growth as a person. I am humbled as I read about the monuments of achievement among my classmates. As I reflect back, I conclude that my arena of consequence has been my given journey involving my family, friends and associates and those whom I have served.
Read more from the Why I Give series.
