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.
"We had a better experience because of other people's generosity, and it is so nice to know that we can do that for future students." - Laura Philipson '01
What inspired you to make your first gift to Washington and Lee University, and what motivates you to continue giving?
When we graduated in 2001, it was important for us to give back immediately. At that point, we were not yet married, but Stephen [Philipson ‘01] and I both felt that Washington and Lee had given us so much. Stephen was a full merit scholar, and because so much had been given to him, we felt it was imperative to pay it forward and give back as soon as we could. We had a better experience because of other people's generosity, and it is so nice to know that we can do that for future students.
How do you hope your support impacts current and future generations of W&L students?
We like to give to where the school has the most need; our goal is for our gifts to go toward the best and highest purpose. We also have some projects that we like to support: Stephen was a C-school major, so he likes to support the Williams School, and we also like to support diversity. We hope that we can help out in whatever way the school needs.
Is there a particular experience, faculty member or program at W&L that played a meaningful role in your decision to give back?
One person in particular was Joan Robbins, former director of Hillel House. Steven and I both were members of Hillel, and she invited us to her home to celebrate Shabbat with a group. She baked fresh challah and really made it special. So, we always think about that when we give.
Watch Laura Philipson’s video interview.
Read more from the Why I Give series.