Responsibilities of the Board of Trustees

Washington and Lee University
Board of Trustees

Responsibilities of the Board of Trustees

In accord with the University’s charter, bylaws, mission statement, and other institutional policies and plans, the Board of Trustees of Washington and Lee University serves as ultimate fiduciary in its oversight of institutional affairs and is responsible for the governance and management of the institution. The board is expected to execute its responsibilities of oversight of the University’s operations through the activities of its standing and ad hoc committees and during the plenary sessions of the full Board of Trustees. In cooperation with the University Administration, the Board has the following primary responsibilities:

• Set and support the Mission, Policies, and Purposes of the University
• Support the Honor System and other traditions of civility, trust, and student self-governance
• Elect the President
• Support the President
• Monitor the President’s performance
• Provide leadership and oversight of sound fiscal policies, including investment and management of the University’s endowment
• Ensure good management of the institution
• Fulfill duties of care and loyalty
• Ensure adequate resources through active fund raising from trustees, alumni, and friends of the University
• Conduct periodic assessment of board performance
• Engage in strategic planning
• Preserve institutional independence and uniqueness

As of May 2021