News & Events

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.

“W&L is a great education, a great community, a great network, and if giving helps foster that network, then I absolutely want to be a part of it.” - Kevin Batteh ’95, ’98L

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

When I first graduated, I wasn't able to make large gifts, but I thought it was important to participate. As I got older, I realized the importance of my W&L experience. It really was impactful for me to see how much Washington and Lee alumni contribute to their communities, whether it be through work or school or church. It became clear to me that Washington and Lee graduates are world citizens. That's important, especially in a day and age when civil society is constantly being challenged. That's certainly one of the reasons why I give. W&L is a great education, a great community, a great network, and if giving helps foster that network, then I absolutely want to be a part of it.

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

I hope that Washington and Lee is able to continue educating young men and women in perpetuity. I think an important part of giving is making sure the university is financially sound and has the ability to educate students, irrespective of their ability to pay. I also think it’s important to ensure that students are able to have the full W&L experience. I learned so much in the classroom, but I also learned a lot out of the classroom, whether it was participating in student government, in a sport, or being part of fraternity life.

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

I had so many memorable experiences, whether it was sitting in a classroom with Professor [Sev] Duvall P'74, P'78 [Henry S. Fox Jr. Professor of English Emeritus] or fishing out of a canoe with philosophy Professor [Chuck] Boggs '66, P'99 [Professor Emeritus of Philosophy] and learning how to fly fish and turkey hunt with him. I had so many amazing experiences, but what really helped to shape me were the people and the relationships I formed at Washington and Lee.

Read more from the Why I Give series.