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.
Sybil Prince Nelson is an assistant professor of mathematics at Washington and Lee University.
“My time at W&L quite literally changed the trajectory of my life. I wouldn’t be who I am today without this university.” - Sybil Prince Nelson '01, P'28
What inspired you to make your first gift to Washington and Lee University, and what motivates you to continue giving?
When I was a student at W&L, I worked on the phone-a-thon, calling alumni and asking for donations. I admired those conversations and the alumni I spoke with — I wanted to be like them: connected, supportive and committed to our alma mater. I also understood that giving is a habit and a way of life, so I decided to start giving back right away because that was the type of person I aspired to be.
How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?
My time at W&L quite literally changed the trajectory of my life. I wouldn’t be who I am today without this university. If my contributions can create even a fraction of that same transformative experience for another student, then every gift is worthwhile.
As a faculty member, is there a particular student, colleague or moment at W&L that reaffirmed your decision to give back?
Every day reminds me what a special place W&L is, but one example that stands out is the Spring Term Abroad program. As a student, I didn’t take advantage of it — I didn’t think it was “for people like me.” But as a faculty member, having now led a study abroad, I see firsthand how transformative it is. What makes W&L remarkable is the way the university ensures that every student, regardless of financial background, can access these opportunities. I now encourage all of my students to take advantage of study abroad because I know how life-changing it can be.
Read more from the Why I Give series.