Meet Icy Keneah ’26

Icy Keneah '26
Majors: Politics and history
Hometown: Glen Allen, Virginia

Why did you choose to come to W&L?

To be completely honest, I've lived in Virginia since the third grade and didn't even know Washington and Lee University existed until I was recruited for women's basketball. As I began to learn more about the school, I was impressed by its strong academic reputation and exceptional financial aid opportunities. It was during DIVE Weekend that I truly committed to W&L! I had the chance to have dinner with incredible professors like Brian Alexander and connect with the entire women's basketball team. Hearing about their experiences and campus involvement made me realize that this was the right place for me.

Have you discovered a course or topic that you didn't expect to study when you first came to W&L?

Geology was the last class I ever expected to take at Washington and Lee, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding. I learned a great deal, and going cave diving near the end of the term was easily one of my top 10 experiences on campus.

What has been your most impactful experience at W&L, either on or off-campus?

I've enjoyed meeting people within the Lexington community who have strong ties to Washington and Lee. While working with Habitat for Humanity over the summer, I had the chance to engage with many individuals, including alumni with fascinating stories. I also had the opportunity to pet-sit for Mr. and Mrs. Reed, long-time Lexington residents, and spend meaningful time with them. They are avid supporters of the women's basketball team and have quickly become my family away from home.

What was your favorite class and why?

Poli-Wood: Indian Epics, Myth and Cinema as Political Philosophy with associate professor of politics Stu Gray was, by far, the best class I've taken at Washington and Lee University. The course introduced students to the two most important epics in Hindu thought, the "Mahābhārata" and the "Rāmāyaṇa." We closely examined these foundational texts alongside films inspired by their figures, themes and myths. I initially enrolled because I deeply respect and admire Professor Gray's teaching, but I left the course with a profound appreciation for how these epics have been connected to political movements as expressed through Indian cinema and cultural narratives.

What has been your greatest accomplishment since arriving at W&L?

Last year, I was honored to receive the William A. Jenks Scholarship, awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong interest in history. Receiving this award reminded me that, although writing papers can sometimes be challenging or tedious, the research and analysis that go into them do not go unnoticed, especially by the dedicated faculty in the History Department.

Have you studied abroad during your time at W&L? Where did you go, and how was your experience?

In 2023-24, I had the opportunity to study in Nepal with professors Shikha Silwal and Tim Lubin, focusing on caste at the intersection of economy, religion and law. Our four-week Spring Term class included lectures from activists, lawyers and members of marginalized communities, all addressing the modern implications of South Asia's traditional caste system. We partnered with the Feminist Dalit Organization and the National Human Rights Commission to support advocacy for women's social and political rights through affirmative action initiatives. Beyond the classroom, I experienced aspects of Nepali life and culture that I will never forget: I witnessed an exorcism and a cremation, explored an underground cave and visited a Buddhist monastery.

How have your experiences at W&L prepared you for post-graduate success?

Serving as the head community assistant for Residence Life, one of three captains of the women's basketball team, a club president, all while managing academics and internships, has required strong time-management skills. I've learned that the most challenging tasks must be prioritized and completed early, so that I can be fully present and responsive in all areas of my life.

Who or what inspires you?

My mother and grandmother are my greatest inspirations. Both survived the Liberian Civil War and have gone on to accomplish so much in their own lives. They are incredibly kind and genuinely care about the people they interact with. They approach every situation with compassion and thoughtfulness, always advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Their unwavering support and desire to see me succeed continue to motivate me every day!

What do you like about being a DIII athlete?

On campus, being a student-athlete means having a built-in family that supports you physically, mentally and emotionally. As a member of the women's basketball team, I spend more time with my teammates than with anyone else at the university. We train, travel, compete, study and grow together. It's a bond that goes far beyond the court. Balancing athletics with academics and leadership roles can be demanding, but it also teaches discipline, time management and resilience. You're expected to perform at a high level in both the classroom and competition, often within the same day. But the reward isn't just about wins and losses; it's about building character, leadership skills and lifelong connections.