Washington and Lee is known for its speaking tradition, yet this unique aspect extends beyond just campus. The Lexington community has long been a welcoming presence, evident through initiatives like “Get Downtown” for first-years, “Paws to Connect”, the farmers’ market and various other community-campus events. But is this relationship becoming strained?
As I reflected on this, I realized, even as a first-year, I already know a lot about the college-town dynamic. My hometown of Granville, Ohio, which hosts Denison University, appears very similar on the surface — a charming village with brick buildings and comparable populations. In fact, some of you may have even applied to this quaint college. So when I arrived in Lexington, I expected a similar relationship between the college and town, like the one I knew from Granville and Denison.
Despite being in the center of town, Denison barely interacts with Granville. College students stay on campus and residents don’t venture onto university grounds. There’s no off-campus housing and all parties are contained to the school’s borders. Everyone seems to be happiest this way.
Even when visiting other college towns, I’ve noticed the relationship between students and long-term residents is often strained or nonexistent. Sadly, many residents dread students’ return each fall.
So what a pleasant surprise it was moving to Lexington where the community goes the extra mile to make students feel welcome and students respond by volunteering and supporting local businesses. Nearly every interaction I’ve had with Lexington residents has been positive; they are always eager to chat, offer assistance or encourage prospective students: “You need to come here!”
As I write this piece, there are kids playing games and an older man working in the library alongside students writing papers or studying for tests. These are community members who genuinely enjoy engaging with us.
Even in the few months I’ve been here, I’ve come to cherish this mutually beneficial and welcoming relationship. So, when I began to hear murmurs of tension, I became concerned. I love my hometown but the non-existent college-community relationship there is disheartening. The same can’t happen here.
Yet the parallels are troubling. Denison was essentially banished from Granville because the quiet town grew frustrated with frequent parties in residential areas. No parent wants to raise their child in a place where drunk college kids stumble down the street after a night out. No homeowner wants to be jolted awake at 1 a.m. to “Party in the USA.” What’s a fun night to us can be a nuisance to them.
The police should not have to break up parties over noise complaints or pick up drunk students who decide to walk home instead of taking Trav. There are measures in place to allow for students to have fun while Lexington residents enjoy their peace and quiet.
While relationships are a two-way street, W&L students should take the first step in repairing any potential strain. Hopefully, the rumors remain just that, but from experience, W&L and Lexington are both better because of their connection.
Whether we gain a sense of purpose by volunteering in Lexington or discover internship opportunities through local residents, these connections can shape our futures and foster a sense of belonging. This might mean finding adult mentors through church or being welcomed into a local family when feeling homesick.
At other times, it could take the form of greater opportunities to hear speakers or attend events. In fact, nearly every campus talk I’ve attended has brought in Lexington residents, enriching discussions with diverse life perspectives.
At the very least, strong ties between W&L and Lexington mean friendly gestures like a smile or greeting around town that can brighten your day. The community is interested in continued engagement but we must do our part to respect their lives while living ours.
“It takes a village” applies to more than just raising young kids. It takes a village at every stage of life to support, grow and connect with one another. This is a relationship worth preserving and, by opening our doors, we can inspire Lexington to do the same for generations to come.
