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.

“Thanks to others’ generosity, my life has been changed in ways I never even dreamed.”

- Lizzy Nguyen ’25

Hometown: Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania

Major: Neuroscience

Minor: Poverty and Human Capability Studies

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

Thanks to others’ generosity, my life has been changed in ways I never even dreamed. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in the company of people who inspire me. As someone dedicated to paying it forward, I hope to support future students similarly.

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

I hope my support to W&L’s students (both during my time in Lexington and afterward) opens doors. Although I’m nowhere near achieving the peak of my professional goals in medicine and public health, I look forward to how my efforts can support others in their own journeys as a mentor, connection or otherwise.

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

The Shepherd Program defined my W&L experience from start to finish and shaped my future goals. Between Campus Kitchen, Volunteer Venture, my Shepherd Internship in Utica (New York) and the wonderful people I’ve shared quality time with in Mattingly House, I’ve discovered so much about myself, the world and where I belong in it. Alongside countless other opportunities I’ve had the chance to explore, Shepherd was a truly special part of my W&L experience and will certainly continue to be for many students to come.

I largely credit my success at W&L to hard work, blessings and, most importantly, everyone who has supported me along the way. Although there are countless people to recognize, I’d especially like to thank the employees of W&L’s Dining Services and Facilities whose contributions to student life often go underappreciated. Their efforts have kept me well-fed, well-loved and fall-free (no ice on winter days and no branches on the sidewalk sending me flying off my skateboard), and I can’t thank them enough for what they do for W&L’s students and alumni alike.

Read more from the Why I Give series.