The Williams School

of Commerce, Economics and Politics

Established in 1905, the Williams School of Commerce, Economics and Politics is distinct among its peers–offering a business education within a larger liberal arts curriculum. In fact, Washington and Lee University is the only top tier liberal arts college in the United States to claim a nationally accredited commerce school. The Williams School has been fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) since 1927. Student outcomes for Washington and Lee University are available from the Office of Accreditation and Institutional Research.

Highlights


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.”

Continue Reading

Pooja Thakur-Wernz and Aliaa Bassiouny Collaborate to Publish Paper in the Critical Perspectives on International Business Journal

The professors co-authored an article titled “Family Ownership and Institutional Voids: Evidence from SMEs in Egypt.”

Continue Reading

A Culture of Kindness

Jenny Galeana ’26 arrived on campus as a Gunn-Pemberton Scholar in 2025 and found a welcoming community that inspires her to be her best.

Continue Reading

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. 

Continue Reading

From the Sidelines to the World Stage

Kaylee Hartung ’07 will cover two of the world’s premier sporting events during a single month.

Continue Reading

Career Connections

The W&L network is perhaps most illustrative in the early-career assistance and opportunities our alumni provide to current students.

Continue Reading

Refining an Industry

Eric Herrera ’20 was recently named to the 2026 Forbes 30 Under 30 list for his work with chemical manufacturing startup MaverickX, which he cofounded with Jesse Evans ’20.

Continue Reading

Winter Reading Recs

Washington and Lee University’s library staff recommend their current favorite winter reads.

Continue Reading

Making Space for Makerspaces

W&L students have access to cutting-edge tools and technology through W&L’s commitment to hands-on pedagogy.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

[Postponed] W&L to Host “Slices of Research” Program at Salerno Wood Fired Pizza & Taphouse

Newly promoted faculty members will present their research in a PechaKucha format on Jan. 27.

Continue Reading

Where Tradition Meets Entrepreneurship: The University Store’s Student and Alumni Connection

The University Store has become an unexpected incubator, offering a platform to launch and grow entrepreneurial ventures.

Continue Reading

The Williams School

  • Williams School
    Washington and Lee University
    Lexington, VA 24450

Rob Straughan

Crawford Family Dean

Elizabeth Oliver

Associate Dean

Misty Snider

Executive Assistant