Stories of Consequence

It is an exciting era for women in philanthropy, and Washington and Lee University is encouraging its alumnae to realize their potential as philanthropic leaders with the establishment of the Lettie Pate Evans Society.

As the university approaches its 40th anniversary of co-education, the Lettie Pate Evans Society seeks to engage women in creating impactful legacies at W&L and providing unique opportunities for alumnae to have a voice in the future of the university. Members can direct their contributions to the areas of the university that resonate with them most, ensuring each gift not only reflects the individual donor’s values and interests but also collectively enhances its impact across campus.

“I give to Washington and Lee not only because of what the university is and what it has meant to me personally but because of what it will be,” says Betsy Pakenas ’94, a wealth adviser and current W&L Board of Trustees member from Frederick, Maryland. “W&L is full of such promise, and the education it offers, both in and outside the classroom, only gets better with time. Giving to W&L helps ensure that the university continues to be a premier liberal arts institution as it raises future generations of leaders.”

Named for Letitia “Lettie” Pate Whitehead Evans, a significant philanthropist and the largest benefactor in W&L’s history, the society celebrates the university’s female donors at a crucial point in the history of philanthropy. Women currently have more earning power and are controlling more wealth than at any other time in U.S. history, and according to a 2023 Bank of America Study of Philanthropy, among the top 60% of income earners, women are more likely to give — and give more — to secular causes.

These trends are expected to continue, and W&L hopes to provide its alumnae with a meaningful way to channel their philanthropic efforts into a cause that supports future generations of students.

The Lettie Pate Evans Society not only amplifies women’s giving power but also provides opportunities for alumnae to connect and build community, pushing each other to expand their philanthropic impact.

"I give to Washington and Lee not only because of what the university is and what it has meant to me personally but because of what it will be." — Betsy Pakenas '94

Jocelyn Lewis, executive director of university development, says the society is launching at a pivotal time in the university’s history as the first undergraduate alumnae celebrate their 35th reunion in 2024.

“By intentionally engaging women and inviting them to harness their philanthropic power, the Lettie Pate Evans Society unites our most generous alumnae around a shared commitment to enrich W&L’s future,” Lewis says. “The society strengthens our community and highlights the transformative influence of women and serves as an inspiring model for our students and future philanthropists.”

For Pakenas, becoming a member of the society sets a powerful example for Washington and Lee alumnae.

“It’s an opportunity for our alumnae to experience the power of collective giving and to a community that is special to each of us,” she says. “And through the society, we’re also creating a community of our own that is engaged with W&L and its future and can serve as a role model for the next generation of women.”

Read more about the Leading Lives of Consequence campaign.