Student Advancement Officer Program

The Student Advancement Officer (SAO) program empowers Washington and Lee University students to serve as ambassadors for philanthropy while developing valuable professional skills. Through philanthropy education initiatives and meaningful conversations with alumni, SAOs help students, alumni, and the greater W&L community better understand how generosity shapes the Washington and Lee experience. By sharing stories of impact and fostering a culture of gratitude, they connect W&L’s traditions of giving with the students who benefit from them every day.

The program is centered around two signature initiatives. During the academic year, Student Advancement Officers serve as callers for the W&L Fund’s Phonathon program, engaging alumni in meaningful conversations about their W&L experience, sharing updates from campus, and encouraging philanthropic support. Each winter, SAOs also lead Philanthropy Education Week, a campus-wide initiative that highlights the impact of donor generosity through interactive events, educational programming, and peer-to-peer conversations. Together, these experiences help the campus community understand the importance of philanthropy while strengthening connections between students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends.

The Student Advancement Officer program seeks students who demonstrate enthusiasm for Washington and Lee, a genuine interest in connecting with alumni and fellow students, and a desire to grow as leaders. Students interested in joining the program participate in a standard application and interview process, typically held during Fall Term. Approximately 10-12 students are selected to participate each year.

Holly Snyder, assistant director of annual giving, serves as the staff advisor for the Student Advancement Officers.

2025-2026 Student Advancement Officers

• Trey Custodio ’26
• Libby DeVooght ’26
• Daniel Lu ’26
• Anshika Patel ’26
• Crystal Campuzano ’27
• Alli Badeaux ’28
• Vi Cao ’28
• Kyra Edwards ’28
• Anh Nhu ’28
• Kaia Lain ’28