University ends identity-based graduation events amid federal DEI crackdown
Students say changes to commencement programming impact marginalized communities
W&L tuition is growing while endowment returns are falling short
The university’s endowment has had less than expected returns for three years, while tuition jumped by nearly 10% in the same span
University enlists D.C. lobbying firm to oppose proposed increase in endowment tax
The move marks the first time the university has hired an outside lobbying firm, according to lobbying disclosures
A third of blue light systems are out of order
Of the 18 Help Systems on campus, six lack working communication features, and signs cover the call buttons
President Dudley declines to sign letter against ‘undue government intrusion’ in higher education
The letter, signed by hundreds of universities nationwide, is circulating after months of the Trump administration’s attacks on colleges’ DEI programs, research grants, and more
EC and SJC officer positions garner no opposition
Elections for the university’s two student governing bodies concluded last week
Former members of Congress implore students to compromise across political difference
Two former congressmen from across the aisle gave a joint talk on campus to encourage civil discourse
W&L deploys new Gen Eds for 2026
In fall 2026, FDRs will be replaced by a new “skills-based” curriculum
Sororities vote to rename Panhellenic DEI position
The Panhellenic Vice President of DEI role was renamed to Vice President of Community Engagement. The change comes after pressure from the federal government to end DEI programs
Nine W&L administrative positions in flux as staff leave or switch positions
The university notified students of the changes last week. But some of the turnover happened months ago
Appalachian Sage sold as downtown businesses shake things up
Businesses continue to play musical chairs with downtown storefronts. Two popular Lexington cafés have changes brewing