Our Community
Washington, Pennsylvania, located 30 miles south of Pittsburgh in western Pennsylvania, has been the home of Washington & Jefferson College since its founding in 1781. Today, the College and the city continue to explore new opportunities for improving their relationship.
With the assistance of the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation of Pittsburgh, representatives from the College and the city have discussed issues of common interest and developed a strategy for increased cooperation called the Blueprint for Collaboration, which describes the many opportunities for building on a renewed spirit of cooperation.
The increased collaboration between the city and College is part of a greater movement in Washington to improve the economic and social conditions of the community. Public and private organizations have invested heavily in improvement projects that will help unlock the city’s enormous potential. Efforts include a $14-million streetscape improvement project that will significantly improve the infrastructure of downtown Washington.
W&J is proud to play a part in the renewal and growth of the Washington community. Some of the ways that the College contributes to the community include:
- W&J offers the Washington County community a variety of programs, including varsity athletics, award-winning performances, cultural events, lecturers, and children’s programming.
- W&J sponsors community projects such as Pony Baseball.
- Through the efforts of a W&J professor, a group of students, and the parent of a student, a 2.2-mile walking/jogging trail was created at Washington Park that benefits community residents, local high school athletes, and W&J students.
- W&J has developed outreach programs in biological science education that enhance the experience of students and teachers in Washington County schools.
- W&J graduates, who include more than 750 doctors, lawyers, and presidents/CEOs of businesses, contribute significantly to the region.
- W&J employs more than 260 people whose economic impact in the area exceeds $30 million annually.