The Diplomat Dispatch
A regular e-newsletter from President Andrew Rich about the achievements of the Diplomat
community on campus and around the world.
01/28/2026
F&M To Honor Community Leaders; New Investments in Academic Programs
Three extraordinary leaders will receive honorary degrees this spring: John Fry, who was F&M's 14th president; Susan Eckert, who led the Lancaster County United Way for 25 years; and, MaryAnn Robins, director of the Circle Legacy Center and advocate...
12/16/2025
Recognizing Art Clark’s Exceptional Generosity; Preparing Future-Ready Leaders
I am pleased to share news of the largest cumulative gift in the College's history to support student financial aid – $10 million from Art Clark, Jr. We also share news today of new leadership programs for students applying to be part of the F&M...
11/20/2025
$7.5 Million Gift to Power F&M Athletics; Our Commitment to PA Students
The largest gift in F&M history to Diplomat athletics from Ken Mehlman '88 will support the construction of the Mehlman Center for Strength, Conditioning, Wellness and Performance. We're also pleased to announce our Commonwealth Commitment, which...
10/23/2025
New Gift Endows Directorship of Klehr Center; Meet F&M’s New Faculty
Thanks to gifts from more than 200 alumni, we are pleased to announce that the directorship of the Klehr Center for Jewish Life will be supported by an endowment in perpetuity. In this issue, we also share profiles of the five new assistant professors...
09/25/2025
Inspiring Gift for Leadership Lab at F&M; Board Chair-Elect Named
We are pleased to announce that Matthew N. DesChamps '93, P’28 will be the next chair of the Board of Trustees of Franklin & Marshall College. Matt has been a member of the board since 2014. We also share news today of a gift from Kenneth B. Mehlman...
09/04/2025
Class of 2029 Ready to Shape the World
Our first-year class of almost 500 includes students from 26 states and 33 countries—from Baltimore and Beijing; Millersville and Mumbai; Santa Barbara, San Antonio, and Singapore; Allentown, Arlington, and Athens. We also have a record number...