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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’m hopeful the gifts I direct to students make it a little easier for them to chase down the answers they seek and to pursue—to the fullest—the life for which W&L is preparing them." - Shane Saunders ‘03

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

I think my first gift to W&L was during my senior year, and I wanted to do so after meeting so many alumni who had contributed before me. I remember our 50-year counterparts — the Class of 1953 — who held a nice wine tasting and invited our class to join them, where we heard some incredible stories of generosity.

I continue to give both because I want to be a part of that legacy of generosity and because I’m hopeful that I can inspire the current generation of students to give.

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

I hope that my contributions, in some way, help students to find passions they didn’t know they had, just like W&L helped me. I’m hopeful the gifts I direct to students make it a little easier to for them to chase down the answers they seek and to pursue — to the fullest — the life for which W&L is preparing them.

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

I think Washington Term was most impactful on me as a donor, because I benefitted so much from the generosity of others in a way I had never before experienced. I resolved that, once I was in the position to do so, I would help those following after me.

Read more from the Why I Give series.