Economics Department
Washington and Lee’s Department of Economics seeks to give its students a fundamental understanding of economic processes and institutions with an emphasis on the liberal arts. Students learn to think critically using analytical tools, allowing them to apply theory to economic and social issues.
With the empirical tools of the discipline, students also develop an ability to evaluate the validity of theoretical predictions. Additionally, students develop communication skills, making graduates well-suited to address complex issues in today’s world.
2025 Five-Star Distinguished Alumni Awards
These alumni exemplify leadership, service and professional excellence and will be honored during Five-Star Festival, Oct. 3–5, 2025.
Bringing Humanity Into The Conversation
Kate LeMasters ’15 cultivated a career of addressing public health inequalities with marginalized societies.
Campus Kitchen Announces 2025-26 Just Food Series
W&L alumni return to campus as lecturers for the annual event series, which examines how food systems interact with issues of social justice.
W&L Students Learn and Network in New York City
Washington and Lee students interested in finance completed valuable summer internships in New York City this summer.
Economics Professor Interviewed for ‘Marketplace’ Podcast
Linda Hooks was one of three economists who offered their opinions on what Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell would say during an annual gathering in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, on Aug. 22.
In the Business of Good Journalism
W&L’s Reynolds Journalism Internship Program places students in newsrooms across the country, where they become fully immersed in the life of a journalist for 12 weeks.
W&L Outcomes: Charlie Micek ’25
Micek is returning to Capitol Hill as an AI Policy Fellow through the Horizon Institute for Public Service.
Dr. Charles Frankum ’90 lays claim to being one of the few surgeons in the country who flies himself to appointments at rural hospitals.
Aliaa Bassiouny Named to the Board of Directors for Orascom Development Egypt
The Lawrence Term Professor of Finance will serve as a non-executive member of the board for the real estate development company.
These faculty have been recognized for their outstanding teaching, scholarship and service to the university.
Peter Grajzl Presents Research at the Oweesta Native CDFI Capital Access Convening
The John F. Hendon Professor of Economics shared research he jointly conducted with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis’ Center for Indian Country Development.
Ainsley Daigle ’13 Named to Billboard’s Women in Music 2025 List
The vice president at Firebird Artist Management was honored in the multisector category.
A Career in Economics
American Economic Association
