Washington and Lee University
CFR activity is primarily directed toward funding top institutional priorities. At any given time there will also be projects underway that respond to special opportunities ―foundation RFPs or specific invitations from funders. While some proposals are responsive to these opportunities, funding is never pursued based on opportunity alone. All projects must be of significant value to the institution and must clearly further the university mission.
Current Fundraising Priorities:
Student Support
Fundraising in this area is primarily focused on securing funds for tuition scholarships, as well as funding to allow W&L students from low-income families access to the same resources and opportunities as their peers. This includes scholarship support for study-abroad, and research and internship stipends.
Faculty Support
Funding for professorships, visiting professor series and faculty development is a key to maintaining an outstanding academic program and recruitment of top scholar/ teachers.
Academic Excellence
This category includes funding for curriculum and program development for emerging areas of study as well essential enhancements to bolster existing programs. This includes funding for visiting lecturers, speaker series and material resources. Also included in this category is funding for the renovation of the university library, the academic heart of the campus.
Enhancing the Arts
CFR efforts are now focused on enhancing the fledgling dance program, and in visual arts ensuring that the gallery continues to feature compelling and provocative works from distinguished artists. Funding for professorships and an Artist- in- Residence program in both Dance and Visual Arts are the current focus of this initiative.
Historic Buildings, Modern Learning
The Colonnade, a designated National Historic Landmark, has been the primary site for teaching and learning at Washington and Lee since 1824. Fundraising is underway both to preserve and restore these beautiful buildings and to equip them to serve the needs of contemporary education.
Special Initiatives
The priorities in this category currently include:
The Center for Jewish Life ― a much needed facility for religious, academic and social activities to serve our Jewish community and to further important interfaith initiatives. We are currently seeking corporate and foundation support for building construction and contributions toward an endowment for the Center.
The Shepherd Program for the Interdisciplinary Study of Poverty and Human Capability. CFR works with program directors to secure corporate and foundation funding for the 8 week student service internships that complement this groundbreaking academic program on poverty.