Stories of Consequence
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.
"Giving back to a place that positively shaped me into who I am today is one small way to lead a life of consequence." - Addie Cheek ’25
What inspired you to make your first gift to Washington and Lee University, and what motivates you to continue giving?
My first gift to Washington and Lee University was inspired by the deep appreciation I have for a community that truly shaped me as a person. I’ve always loved W&L, and joining the Senior Gift Committee and becoming a class agent gave me the opportunity to be part of something meaningful — giving back to a place that gave so much to me. I continue to give because W&L still holds a special place in my heart, and I want future students to have the same transformative experience I did.
How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?
I hope my support encourages current and future W&L students to fully take advantage of the people and the place because that’s what made my experience so special. The relationships I built and the environment at W&L shaped me in ways I’ll always carry with me. I want students to lean into those opportunities, connect with the community around them and make the most of their time. If my support helps make that kind of experience possible, even in a small way, it means a lot to me.
Is there a particular experience, faculty member or program at W&L that played a meaningful role in your decision to give back?
Beyond the friendships and memories that W&L gave me, the English Department had a huge impact on my decision to give back. My adviser, Genelle Gertz, associate dean of strategic initiatives and Thomas H. Broadus Professor of English, was one of the most supportive professors I’ve ever had. She always made time for me, whether it was talking through difficult decisions or just life in general. She guided me through every class registration, consistently advocated for me and truly cared about my path. She also played a big role in helping me land my first job as an English teacher and inspired me to pursue that career in the first place.
What does it mean to you to lead a life of consequence?
Leading a life of consequence means living in a way that genuinely matters; your words, actions, choices and relationships have an impact beyond yourself. As a teacher, I often find myself telling my students that a small act of kindness — a smile, a compliment, etc. — can change the trajectory of someone else's day. Giving back to a place that positively shaped me into who I am today is one small way to lead a life of consequence.
Read more from the Why I Give series.