Campus Minister Bio

    William C. “Burr” Datz grew up on Long Island, NY. He was taught by Dominican nuns at St. Agnes Elementary School, and by Marianist brothers and priests while attending Chaminade High School. He graduated from Washington and Lee University in 1975, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish.

   He taught for two years at St. Joseph’s Elementary School in Babylon, NY, before returning to W&L to work as assistant manager of food services. After a successful two year stint, he became assistant director of security, serving in that position until 1988. In June of that year, be began serving as the Catholic campus minister at Virginia Military Institute and W&L through St. Patrick’s Parish.

   He earned his Masters in Pastoral Arts degree from Loyola University’s Institute for Ministry program in 1990. In 2001, he became W&L’s first Director of Leadership Development. In 2005, he became W&L’s first Coordinator of Religious Life, adding responsibilities that most college chaplains sustain while continuing to provide leadership programs for the University.

   On Dec. 31, 2009, he returned to his campus ministry roots and currently serves the Catholic Diocese of Richmond as campus minister, assigned to VMI and W&L. He is a certified challenge course instructor, and plays music in three local bands as well as during liturgies.

   Married with Alesia for thirty years, they are grateful for the blessings of two adult daughters and a son-in-law.