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Introducing Why I Give—a new series celebrating the generosity of Washington and Lee alumni 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 values.

I hope that my support helps every student have their best experience at W&L.

What inspired you to make our first gift to Washington and Lee, and what motivates you to continue giving?

My Dad (Jamie Small '81) inspired me to make my first gift to W&L. He has always had such a generous spirit, and his love for the university is contagious. He taught me that there are many ways to give back, whether that is through volunteering, giving financially or even offering your time or advice to a fellow alum or student.

How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?

I hope that my support helps every student have their best experience at W&L. My husband, Shane (class of 2017), and I had wonderful experiences there due to the generosity of others, and we are grateful that we are able to pay that forward so that future students can have meaningful experiences of their own.

Is there a particular experience, faculty member, or program at W&L that played a meaningful role in your decision to give back?

Leigh Ann Beavers was so generous with her knowledge, her time and her kindness while I was at W&L. She was always happy to share advice or ideas and helped my class of seniors be the best we could be. She helped shape me into the person I am today and gave me a space to explore the world and all of my questions about it through an artistic lens. When I set out to make my first major gift to the university, I wanted to give back to a program that gave me so much.