Sam and Dena Lombardo’s historic 2022 gift set in motion a bold vision for Franklin & Marshall’s future: a dynamic, accessible and unmistakable new entrance to campus. Their generosity empowered the College to imagine a welcome center representative of the F&M experience — a place where prospective students and families could begin their journey and where alumni, parents and friends could return home.

Construction officially began in spring 2023 with a kick-off event that brought together the F&M community, Lancaster neighbors and special guests. Over the next year, the Samuel N. and Dena M. Lombardo Welcome Center took shape as a warm, modern and engaging hub for the entire campus.

"Dena and I are very proud of this moment and very honored to do this for the college that I grew up in the city with; F&M is such an integral part of Lancaster City and of our community." - Sam Lombardo

By the fall 2024 semester, the Lombardo Welcome Center was in operation, ready to greet the newest class of Diplomats during Orientation before hosting alumni, families, and friends for True Blue Weekend a few weeks later. That October, the College dedicated the building during a celebration that highlighted the Lombardo's deep ties to F&M and to the City of Lancaster. After remarks and a celebratory toast, the nearly 200 guests enjoyed live music from student performers and explored the remarkable space made possible by the Lombardo's vision and generosity.