W&L After Class, the Lifelong Learning Podcast Washington and Lee University

Through a serendipitous happenstance, Mark Drumbl, Class of 1975 Alumni Professor of Law and director of the Transnational Law Institute, has dedicated his career to practicing, teaching and questioning international law. In this episode, we examine the function — and limitations — of law as Drumbl details his experiences as a defender for those accused of mass atrocities in Rwanda, his study into the marginalization of people and collective violence and his beliefs on how we need to reconceptualize evil.

Paul Youngman, W&L class of 1987, associate provost and the the Harry E. and Mary Jayne W. Redenbaugh Professor of German, details his very full days as a W&L undergrad, his return to his alma mater as a German professor, his journey as W&L’s Associate Provost, and also what it feels like to walk in the shoes as a W&L parent. He also shares his time in the military when he was stationed in the US, Europe and the Middle East.

Wythe Whiting, professor of cognitive and behavioral science, helps us explore the complex connections between mental health, sleep, physical activity and cognitive functioning. In this episode, we’ll discuss how modern technologies impact our ability to focus during daily tasks and potential harmful effects. And we’ll also navigate the vast social media landscape, examining its powerful influence on mental health, and shed light on the hidden dynamics that shape our online experiences.

Rob Straughan, the Crawford family dean of the Williams school and Professor of Business Administration brings a wealth of knowledge and insights about the unique interdisciplinary approach of the Williams School. In this episode, we'll delve into Rob's journey at W&L, the evolution of the William schools' distinctive approach within a liberal arts curriculum, and the exciting initiatives on the horizon, including the plans for the new Williams school building.

In this episode, we chat with Kish Parella, Class of 1960 Professor of Ethics and Law, about her academic research in business and human rights, how her students influence her scholarship, and why working outside the classroom strengthens her role as a professor. We also explore the importance of corporate accountability and consumer education, including how contract clauses can have a major impact on an individual’s day-to-day life.

Tom Camden, Washington and Lee’s outgoing head of Special Collections and Archives, tells us how W&L ignited his career as a historian, then takes us on a tour of what has come to be known as “the vault” to showcase some of the university’s extensive collection.