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.

"I hope future generations of students come here and have the same amazing experience I did, and I know that the W&L Fund is so important in making an impact on their experiences." - Philip Kensinger ‘20

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

I made my first gift to W&L when I was Senior Gift chair my senior year and, through that experience, I really got to appreciate the impact that the W&L Fund and alumni philanthropy have on the school. While tuition provides the minimum, it's really the W&L Fund and the generosity of our alumni that make W&L such a special place that goes above and beyond the college experience.

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

I had the most incredible time at W&L, and every time I come back to Lexington, I wish I could start all four years over. I hope future generations of students come here and have the same amazing experience I did, and I know that the W&L Fund is so important in making an impact on their experiences.

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

My favorite faculty member at W&L was [Lewis G. John Term Professor of Politics] Seth Cantey. I took my first class with him my sophomore year — his American foreign policy class — and it had such an impact on my worldview. From then on, I made every class schedule around being sure to take his class. He had such an incredible impact on how I think about the difference we can make in the world.

What does it mean to you to lead a life of consequence?

I think to live a life of consequence is to make a meaningful impact in either the world or your industry or even just your family and friends. I think W&L does a great job of turning out people who really do live a life of consequence.

Watch Philip Kensinger’s video interview.

Read more from the Why I Give series.