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.
“I was a first-generation college student — I know how much this experience benefited me throughout my entire life, so I hope [my support] allows students to attend who could not otherwise attend financially.” - Craig Cornett ‘80
What inspired you to make your first gift to Washington and Lee University, and what motivates you to continue giving?
I graduated in 1980, and I gave my first gift to the annual fund in 1981. I couldn't afford much but knew that I would not have been able to attend Washington and Lee without financial assistance. Student financial support is built from gifts from alumni, friends, parents and other benefactors. I think it is important to pass that along through the years.
How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?
I hope my support allows students to attend who couldn't otherwise because of their financial circumstances. I was a first-generation college student — I know how much this experience benefited me throughout my entire life, so I hope it allows students to attend who could not otherwise attend financially.
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 great experiences at W&L. I was the co-chair of the 1980 Mock Convention and that was a really great experience. It gave me a lot of experience in leadership and being able to speak to people in different ways. My relationship with faculty was also very important. I had great relationships with professors who I kept up with for many years; when I went to graduate school, they always wanted to hear how things were going. Also, the friendships I built here. These are all very important experiences I think I've drawn on my entire life.
Read more from the Why I Give series.