Politics Department
The Department of Politics at Washington and Lee University teaches students to be informed and active citizens of a free society, able to think about politics with rigor and nuance. We offer a wide array of courses in American government, political philosophy, global politics, and statistics and methods. We encourage students to pursue their education in an interdisciplinary manner and we provide opportunities to augment their study in off-campus and experiential learning programs.
To this end, the Politics Department faculty:
- Offer a broad, robust political science curriculum.
- Structure the major in an interdisciplinary spirit and encourage students to take advantage of off-campus and foreign study programs.
- Teach in a responsive, solicitous manner.
- Engage and contribute to the study of politics in the broader scholarly community.
- Teach courses that enable students to demonstrate competency in: Research and Analysis Objectively Evaluating Information and Arguments and Formulating their own thesis Integrating Knowledge into a broader understanding of Politics
Politics Professor Speaks in the Great Hall at the Library of Congress
Brian Alexander participated in a moderated discussion on his new book “Jefferson’s Manual of Parliamentary Practice.”
Educational Odyssey
Ashton Evans ’26 reflects on a W&L experience full of mentorship, global learning and skills she will carry with her for life.
From the Sidelines to the World Stage
Kaylee Hartung ’07 will cover two of the world’s premier sporting events during a single month.
W&L Presents Peter Beinart in Conversation with Seth Cantey
The two politics professors will discuss themes from Beinart’s new book, “Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza,” on Feb. 3.
Brian Alexander Publishes New Book
The associate professor of politics brings Thomas Jefferson’s definitive word on the rules for Congress to print.
In Memoriam: Delos D. Hughes, Professor of Politics Emeritus
Hughes served as professor at Washington and Lee University for 33 years.
W&L Alumni Receive Omicron Delta Kappa Scholarship
Two Washington and Lee University graduates received scholarships from the National Leadership Honor Society to support graduate and professional study.
Change Agents: DeLaney Center Interns Help Drive Social Progress
Eleven W&L students participated in the first full year of programming spread across multiple states.
Meet Icy Keneah ’26
Keneah, co-captain of the women’s basketball team, says her bond with her teammates goes far beyond the court.
Stuart Gray to Headline Second Beyond the Page Event
The associate professor of politics will discuss his monograph “The Political Theory of the Bhagavad-Gita.”
W&L Announces New Lecture Series Featuring Faculty’s Milestone Works
Beyond the Page is a yearlong series of talks organized by the Provost’s Office to celebrate the significant achievements of the university’s faculty.
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.