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If you had the opportunity to modify one aspect of the world, what would it be? This inquiry fuels the university’s ambitious latest fundraising and engagement initiative, With You: The WashU Campaign. Initiated on May 1, the campaign encourages alumni, parents, contributors, and supporters to collaborate with WashU and strive together to create a better world for everyone.
As the title suggests, With You’s achievement relies on involvement from the WashU community, and guiding this effort are co-chairs Andrew Bursky, AB ’78, BS ’78, MS ’78; Alicia McDonnell, JD ’95; and Cash Nickerson, JD ’85, MBA ’93, JSD ’25. Together, this trio possesses an extensive background in leadership, experience, and commitment to the university.
Bursky considers WashU as both his professional and personal springboard. He encountered his wife, Jane, AB ’78, during his undergraduate years, and they proudly share their alma mater with one of their two children. Currently the managing partner of Atlas Holdings LLC, a Connecticut-based firm engaged in the manufacturing and distribution industries, Bursky chairs WashU’s Board of Trustees and is a member of the New York Regional Cabinet. He and Jane are long-standing contributors whose philanthropic interests encompass medicine, public health, and scholarships.
McDonnell frequently visited WashU’s campus during her upbringing in St. Louis but did not enroll as a student until fall 1992, when she entered the law school. She served as an assistant district attorney in Boston before returning to her hometown, where she works as an independent attorney and real-estate investor. McDonnell continues to be involved with the university as a trustee and vice chair of the School of Law National Council. Dedicated to educational access, she generously supports scholarships.
Nickerson’s role as co-chair of With You is the latest entry on his growing WashU résumé. Besides his three degrees from the university, he holds the position of distinguished teaching professor at WashU Law, serves as a university trustee, and chairs the Austin/San Antonio Regional Cabinet and the law school’s national council. He also practices in the Dallas office of law firm Steptoe & Johnson PLLC. Over the years, he and his wife, Evie—who are parents to three WashU alumni—have made numerous contributions to advance both the law school and cancer research.
What motivated you to sign on as co-chairs for the With You campaign?
Alicia McDonnell: I feel like I’m echoing a line from American Pie — “that one time at band camp … ” — but my experience as a scholarship vice chair during the university’s previous campaign was incredibly rewarding. I loved attending events in various cities and meeting outstanding WashU alumni across the nation. And as a trustee, I’m eager to support WashU’s initiatives.
Andrew Bursky: I was recruited [laughs]! On a serious note, I also feel a profound obligation to the university, particularly in my role as board chair. My WashU education transformed my life. The years I spent here were foundational to who I am today, and I’m sure many share this sentiment. I feel a strong sense of duty to give back because of my fortunate circumstances.
Universities across the country are encountering challenges. Why is supporting higher education, particularly WashU, important to you?
Bursky: For three reasons: First, universities like WashU are pivotal in promoting knowledge, insights, and research across nearly all fields. Second, they are vital incubators for the leaders of tomorrow. Finally — and I believe this is often overlooked — universities play a significant role in fostering social mobility. WashU has invested considerable resources to ensure that the most promising young individuals from diverse backgrounds have the chance to learn here.
During times of turmoil, the best-managed institutions not only survive but thrive. We have an exceptional leader in Chancellor Martin, a robust board, and a community of individuals dedicated to our mission. WashU has positioned itself among the top-tier universities globally, and our future prospects are very promising.
Cash Nickerson: We exist in a capitalist landscape where returns dictate actions. Corporations worry about quarterly profits. Politicians concern themselves with reelection. However, institutions like WashU are distinctive. They can concentrate on the long-term trajectory of humanity and pursue research and innovations with tangible impact.
One of WashU’s remarkable strengths is its location in St. Louis. People truly care about one another here in the Heartland. They aspire to make a positive impact in their communities. The work conducted at WashU doesn’t remain local; it resonates worldwide.
McDonnell: I also value that we are guided by Midwestern virtues. Students from various corners of the globe come to our campus, situated in the heart of the nation, and they flourish as their best selves here. WashU students are undoubtedly high achievers, yet they recognize the significance of forming friendships, enjoying life, and developing into well-rounded individuals.
The more I discover about WashU, the more I understand its uniqueness. I observe other universities grappling with their culture and leadership — and, as a result, their public perception. That’s not an issue we face at WashU. I hold a very optimistic view of our future.
Why — and how — should the WashU community contribute to With You?
Nickerson: When a sports team loses by a hair, everyone focuses on that final moment. However, it’s never solely about that one instance—it’s the entirety of the game. This concept applies to fundraising as well. Every contribution counts. We are members of this institution, and likewise, this institution is a part of us. With every donation, regardless of size, we can assist in fulfilling WashU’s mission and participate in something greater.
McDonnell: It’s essential to keep in mind that With You isn’t solely about contributing a specific sum. It’s also about expanding the university’s network of supporters. Engaging with WashU can take numerous forms, from mentoring current students to networking with young alumni in your area. WashU only becomes more robust when more individuals invest in it, whether financially or otherwise.
If you had the chance to alter one thing in the world, what would it be?
Bursky: I would like to see advancements toward curing Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative conditions within the next five to ten years. And I have faith that we can achieve this at WashU.
Nickerson: I write and instruct on negotiation, and I perceive our inability to engage in constructive dialogue as a significant crisis. I hope we can learn to coexist and embrace our differences in a more compassionate manner. I believe WashU’s focus on leadership training and constructive dialogue is crucial for creating a better and happier world.
McDonnell: My response aligns closely with Cash’s. I believe the world would experience more tranquility and peace if individuals were healthier physically, mentally, and emotionally. To me, enhancing public health and accelerating medical research could help resolve many of our issues.
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