W&L Expands Parental Leave Benefits for Faculty and Staff

Human Resources
November 5, 2025

Washington and Lee University will expand its parental leave benefits beginning Jan. 1, 2026, offering employees more paid time off to care for and bond with a new child.

Under the new policy, benefit-eligible staff will receive 12 consecutive weeks of fully paid parental leave and benefit-eligible faculty will receive one full academic semester or term of paid leave following the birth, adoption or foster placement of a child. The change adds at least four additional weeks of paid leave for many employees through the streamlined program.

"W&L is proud to offer a more inclusive and supportive parental leave policy that reflects our commitment to the well-being of employees and their families," said Jodi Williams, executive director of Human Resources. "We want to ensure that new parents have the time and support they need during this important transition."

The enhanced benefits are available with no waiting period. And if both parents are benefit-eligible W&L employees, each is independently eligible for the full leave benefit.

At least 90 days before the anticipated start date, employees should submit a written leave request - staff through their supervisor and faculty through their dean - and complete the parental leave form, which notifies Human Resources.

For full details and eligibility requirements, please visit the university's parental leave website.