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.

Watch Meredith Attwell Baker's Why I Give video interview.

I hope that my gifts help inspire students and future students to be the same type of alumni who inspired me. - Meredith Attwell Baker ’90

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

When Bill Washburn ’40 (the university’s first women’s tennis coach) was retiring, there was a party for him, and my tennis partner said, “Aare you going?” And I said, “I don't know that I am,” and she said, “Well, if not us, then who?” And that made me realize, as I looked around in my life, that my most precious friends and some of my favorite professional colleagues are all Washington and Lee graduates. I realized how much I value this school and how much it means to me.

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

I chose Washington and Lee because I really liked the alumni. They were smart and fun; they were well rounded; they gave back to their communities. So, I hope that my gifts help inspire students and future students to be the same type of alumni who inspired me.

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

I loved tennis, and I loved my friends. I loved being involved with Fancy Dress and the sororities. I think whatever you do at Washington and Lee — whatever activity it is — if you dig in, then it will reward you back – sort of like life. The more you give, the more you get. It's a wonderful place.

Read more from the Why I Give series.