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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.
Burr Datz portrayed Santa Claus at W&L’s Winter Wonderland celebration from 2012 to 2021. Read more about Datz’s impact and legacy.
"I try to live a life of moral consequence, which I credit to W&L’s Honor System. Tell the truth, be honest, do no harm and hopefully leave things — and people — a little better." - Burr Datz '75
What inspired you to make your first gift to Washington and Lee University, and what motivates you to continue giving?
I gave because my parents raised me to give back, to my high school and W&L, even if it is just a little, because a little bit can always help.
How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?
Being on and around campus as long as I have, I have been impressed with the intelligence, academic curiosity and hardworking attitudes of so many scholar-athletes. That is why I chose to support the Generals Club in my planned giving.
Is there a particular experience, faculty member or program at W&L that played a meaningful role in your decision to give back?
When I was a student, [religion professor] Minor Rogers, Cy Twombly ’53 and Verne Canfield (my golf coaches) and Dr. Jim Worth P’92 in counseling all helped me tremendously. Rogers helped me shape a meaningful philosophy of living, Twombly and Canfield in learning how to better manage my time during seasons, and Worth provided orientation sessions for dorm counselors, helping me begin to understand how to be a better listener.
Professor Ted DeLaney was a friend before he joined the W&L faculty. He was my roommate for a week during a mission trip to Haiti in 2000, and his kindness and wisdom have been infectious, a primary reason why I chose to support the DeLaney Center in planned giving as well.
What does it mean to you to live a life of consequence?
I try to live a life of moral consequence, which I credit to W&L’s Honor System. Tell the truth, be honest, do no harm and hopefully leave things — and people — a little better.
Read more from the Why I Give series.