Washington and Lee University
Lexington, VA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Washington and Lee University
Washington and Lee: Where history, honor, and liberal arts converge since 1749.
Washington and Lee University, affectionately known as W&L, is a distinguished private liberal arts college nestled in Lexington, Virginia. Established as Augusta Academy in 1749, it stands among the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States, carrying a rich tapestry of history, academic rigor, and a commitment to its unique Honor System. W&L is renowned for fostering critical thinking and leadership, preparing students for impactful careers and lives of service. Its beautiful campus abuts the Virginia Military Institute, set against the scenic backdrop of the Shenandoah Valley.
Academically, W&L offers a comprehensive education through its three distinct units: the College, providing a strong liberal arts foundation; the prestigious Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics, known for its focus on business and policy; and the esteemed School of Law. Under Robert E. Lee's presidency, the university pioneered the integration of engineering, journalism, and law with the liberal arts, a radical idea at the time, emphasizing a holistic approach to education that continues today. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary study, ensuring graduates are well-rounded and adaptable.
Life at W&L is enriched by vibrant traditions and a close-knit community. Students uphold the revered, student-run Honor System, a cornerstone of the university's ethos. Campus staples like the Fancy Dress Ball and Mock Convention provide unique social and political engagement opportunities. W&L also boasts 24 intercollegiate varsity athletic teams competing in NCAA Division III. The university has a strong emphasis on student leadership and community involvement, with numerous clubs and organizations, including the national honor society Omicron Delta Kappa, founded right here. The motto, "Non Incautus Futuri" ("Not Unmindful of the Future"), truly reflects its forward-thinking approach while honoring its deep roots.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1749 as Augusta Academy, it is among the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States.
- ✦Boasts an endowment of $2.19 billion (as of 2025), reflecting strong financial health.
- ✦Benefited from a historic $20,000 endowment from George Washington in 1796, one of the largest gifts to education at the time, which continues to contribute to student tuition today.
- ✦Features a unique, student-run Honor System, a distinguishing character of the student experience.
- ✦Home to the Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics, and an esteemed School of Law.
- ✦Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), a national leadership honor society recognizing achievement in five key areas, was founded at Washington and Lee in 1914.
- ✦Received a transformative $100 million gift from alumnus Rupert Johnson Jr. in 2007 for merit-based financial aid and curriculum enrichment programs.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
3 notable schools within Washington and Lee University
The College
The foundational liberal arts unit offering a broad education across various disciplines.
Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics
An endowed school focusing on business, economics, and political science, formerly known as the School of Commerce.
School of Law
One of the three academic units, offering legal education and began enrolling women in 1972.
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