Washington and Lee University is a private liberal arts university located in Lexington, Virginia. Founded in 1749 as Augusta Academy, it was later renamed in honor of two influential figures in American history, George Washington and Robert E. Lee. Washington, who provided financial support to the struggling school, and Lee, who served as its president after the Civil War, both played significant roles in the development of the institution. The university has a strong reputation for its rigorous academics, commitment to honor, and beautiful campus.
Academics:
Washington and Lee offers undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as graduate programs in law. The university is divided into three primary academic units:
1. College of Arts and Sciences
2. Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics
3. School of Law
The university offers a range of majors and interdisciplinary programs, such as politics, economics, business administration, biology, chemistry, history, and more. The institution emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and close faculty-student relationships.
Campus:
Washington and Lee's campus, spread over 325 acres, is known for its historic architecture and picturesque surroundings. The campus is home to several iconic buildings, such as the Colonnade, a group of five buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Lee Chapel, where Robert E. Lee is buried. The campus also offers modern facilities for academics, athletics, and student life.
Athletics:
The university's athletic teams, known as the Generals, compete in NCAA Division III and are members of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Washington and Lee offers a variety of varsity sports, including football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and more. The school's colors are royal blue and white.
Traditions:
Washington and Lee University has several longstanding traditions that foster a sense of community and pride among students, faculty, and alumni. Some notable traditions include:
1. Mock Convention: A student-run event held every four years to predict the presidential nominee for the party not currently in the White House. The event has a strong track record of accuracy and draws attention from national media.
2. Fancy Dress Ball: An annual formal dance that dates back to the early 1900s, featuring elaborate themes and decorations.
3. Honor System: A student-run system emphasizing trust and integrity, based on the principle that students do not lie, cheat, or steal, and hold each other accountable.
4. Founders Day: A celebration of the university's founding and its connection to George Washington and Robert E. Lee.
Admissions:
Washington and Lee University has a competitive admissions process, considering factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular activities, recommendations, and personal essays. The university offers an Early Decision program for students who have selected Washington and Lee as their top choice, as well as a Regular Decision option. In recent years, the university has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning that standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required for admission.
