F&M Stories

One financial gift can change the academic trajectory for a Franklin & Marshall student and those who follow them. As Day of Giving begins, explore six recent stories that showcase the philanthropic spirit of Diplomats worldwide.

1. ‘Why I Chose F&M’: Students and Young Alumni Look Back

Faculty mentorship. Small, discussion-based classes. Experiential learning. A diverse and inclusive community. These are just a few of the reasons prospective students choose F&M – and every gift helps get them here. 

“As a first-generation, low-income woman of color, financial stability was one of the most important factors when making my college decision. F&M allowed me to get the education I deserve at a price that I can afford,” said senior Munahil Sultana, Diplomatic Congress student body president.

Why F&M? > 

2. Running Toward Success, On and Off the Gridiron: Mitch Wagner ’24

Senior Mitch Wagner says his time at F&M has been filled with too many good memories to count. A running back for the Diplomats, he helped lead this year’s team to a 7-3 overall record and third place in the Centennial Conference.

Financial aid “has taken some stress away and allowed me to put more of my focus on the main reasons I’m here: school and football,” Wagner said. 

Meet Mitch >

3. Mary Fouad ’24 Discovered Her Purpose While Studying Abroad

As the first in her family to navigate the American higher education system after emigrating from Egypt to New Jersey, financial aid assistance was crucial to senior Mary Fouad. 

“I am an immigrant, and without the financial aid provided by F&M, I would not have been able to go to a prestigious school with a good reputation and connections,” she said.  

See Mary’s Story > 

4. ‘Transformational Experience’: Fellowship Connects Grad to Family Roots

Lisbeth Marquez-Delgado ’21 is one of 11 F&M young alumni awarded Fulbright fellowships in 2023. Now, she’s making the most of her Diplomat degree.

“One reason I chose to attend F&M was because of the financial aid I was awarded. As a first-generation college graduate, this was a crucial step in my decision-making process, especially since attending F&M meant I had to move across the country,” she said. 

See Lisbeth’s Story >

5. Mary Adams ’24 Embraces All F&M Has to Offer

Thanks to the support that she’s received from grants and scholarships, senior Mary Adams has embraced all that F&M has to offer — including classes, experiences and student activities that weren’t even on her radar when she first set foot on campus.

“Without financial aid, I don’t know if I would have been able to attend college,” Adams said.

Meet Mary >

6. F&M Honors Alumni, Volunteers for Philanthropy, Service and Professional Accomplishment

Alumni were celebrated for countless contributions made to F&M during True Blue Weekend. Recipients of these awards are inducted into the College’s Society of Distinguished Alumni and held in esteem for the time, talents and treasure they have shared with their alma mater.

See the Honorees >

Franklin & Marshall's fifth annual Day of Giving begins today. We're counting on your support to reach our goal of 1,787 alumni, students, families, faculty, professional staff and friends of the College. Make your gift here.