Washington and Lee University
In addition to informing our students about poverty through academic study, Washington and Lee's Shepherd Program fosters learning through service and reflection. By becoming involved directly in what can be done to foster human capabilities for communities and individuals who have been left behind, the program promotes a structure for student leadership and volunteer service on our campus, in the local Rockbridge community and in communities across the nation and internationally.
The Alumni Alternative Break program is a great way for W&L students to spend their break in a meaningful way, serving community organizations alongside W&L alumni and parents. In February, a group traveled to Houston where they spent time at Genesys Works helping W&L alumni conduct mock interviews with prospective, young professionals from one of Genesys Works' partner high schools. Current students are, back row from left, Stephen Wilson, Ellie Stoops, Kathryn Marsh-Soloway, Hilary Nelson, Melissa Derby, Alina Pankova, Tamar Oostrom, Aubri Charnigo, Grace Lee, Danielle Breidung and Scott Diamond. In front, from left, are Emily Darling, Marie Locke and Crystal Spencer, all 2011 W&L graduates who are employed at Genesys Works through the Elrod Fellowship. Genesys Works enables economically disadvanged high school students to enter and thrive in the economic mainstream by providing them the knowledge and work experience required to succeed as professionals.