In a world transformed by science and technology, globalization and new economic, political and cultural realities, the solutions to problems require moral insight as well as analytical and technical skills. Washington and Lee prepares its students to meet this daunting set of challenges through programs that educate and nurture strong leaders, visionary thinkers, compassionate citizens and ethical decision makers.
Our approach is backed by our timeless values of civility and integrity, and enhanced by our commitment to honor the quintessential Washington and Lee tradition: educating students for lives of consequence, motivated by a desire to serve others.
Honor is the moral cornerstone of Washington and Lee University, and the Honor System has long been a central feature of the University. Academic life is shaped by the commitment to honor, and members of the W&L community are expected to conduct their lives with honor on and off the campus. This commitment to an honor results in an uncommon level trust that defines Washington and Lee.
The Johnson Program in Leadership and Integrity, established by a $100 million gift from a W&L alumnus, is meant to further the community's enduring goals: to prepare individuals to lead, to use their talents in serving society, to build lives of consequence, honor, and integrity.
W&L's Shepherd Program integrates rigorous academic study and direct service to disadvantaged communities and persons. It supplements and enriches the education of undergraduate and law students in all majors and career paths, preparing students with differing social and political perspectives to take new initiatives through varied professional endeavors and civic engagements.
The Mudd Center for Ethics was established through a gift to the University from award-winning journalist Roger Mudd, a 1950 graduate of W&L. The Mudd Center supports faculty who wish to develop new courses to enhance the study of ethics across the curriculum and engages in programming that fosters serious and sophisticated conversation about public and professional ethics at the University.
International experience is viewed as an important part of a comprehensive Washington and Lee education. The purpose of study abroad is to further one's knowledge of the world and its cultures and to expand the opportunities and arenas for academic inquiry. To fulfill this purpose, W&L offers a range of study abroad options supported by the resources necessary to ensure a suitable international experience for any student. The University also offers a Certificate in International Immersion for students who show a significant commitment to and understanding of global interaction.