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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.

“The Honor System is something that I live with every day… it had an impact far and beyond the classes and the professors and the coaches.” - Guy Kerr ‘75

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

More and more, I have come to appreciate the opportunities — educationally, socially, athletically and otherwise — at W&L that I had never anticipated. I came to this school having never visited it, so when I drove up and went into the freshman dorm, it was the first time I'd ever laid my eyes on the school or been in the state of Virginia. I learned very quickly that it is a special place.

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

Washington and Lee has a rich, long history, and it would not have that history but for the people who came before us and supported the university. I feel it is part of the legacy here to support the institution that did so much for me and my classmates. Leading by example is critical.

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

The most impactful part of the education, for me, was the Honor System. The Honor System is something that I live with every day. I had no idea that it would have such a large impact on me, but it had an impact far and beyond the classes and the professors and the coaches, and it's something that I'm very thankful for to this day.

Read more from the Why I Give series.