Washington and Lee University Announces Leadership Changes in University Advancement

News Office
August 19, 2024

Jocelyn Lewis Promoted to Executive Director of University Development

Washington and Lee University is proud to announce Jocelyn Lewis as the new executive director of university development. Lewis, who joined W&L in April 2021 as director of leadership giving, brings nearly 25 years of fundraising experience to her new role.

Throughout her time at W&L, Lewis quickly distinguished herself as a leader and exceptional fundraiser. Her work in building and supporting the leadership giving team for the past three years has been instrumental in the university's development success. Prior to W&L, Lewis spent 16 years in various fundraising roles at the University of Virginia. Her experience with successful campaigns at UVA positions her well to lead development through the public phase of the university's current capital campaign, Leading Lives of Consequence.

"We are thrilled to have Jocelyn leading our development efforts," said Susan Wood, vice president for University Advancement. "Her deep experience and strategic approach to fundraising have already made a significant impact at W&L. I have full confidence in Jocelyn's leadership and know the development team will not miss a beat with her at the helm."

Dennis Cross Returns as Senior Advisor for University Advancement and Acting Director of Lifelong Learning

In addition, Washington and Lee is pleased to welcome back Dennis Cross in a one-year, part-time appointment as senior advisor for University Advancement and acting director of Lifelong Learning.

Cross, who previously served as vice president for University Advancement from 2004 to 2021, will be a valuable advisor and partner to the development team, managing a small portfolio of donor prospects. His extensive experience, including the success of the $542.5 million Honor Our Past, Build Our Future capital campaign, will be an invaluable asset to the campaign and the broader advancement team.

Cross will also serve as acting director of Lifelong Learning. In this position, he will oversee the W&L Travel Program, Alumni College and programs including Law and Literature Weekend, Tom Wolfe Weekend and the Institute for Honor Symposium.

"We are excited to welcome Dennis back to the W&L community," said Wood. "His wealth of knowledge and experience will be incredibly valuable as we move into the public phase of our comprehensive campaign. Dennis' leadership will strengthen our efforts in both development and lifelong learning, and we are fortunate to have him on our team during this pivotal time."

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