Diplomat Leadership Program

The Diplomat Leadership Program aims to shape and inspire the next generation of student leaders. Selected students embark on a comprehensive, four-year examination of what it means to be a leader, community member, and force of change in the world.

Shaping and Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

Do you want to be a leader and force of change in the world?

Leadership is more important now than ever before. From navigating complex decision-making to realizing your personal and professional goals, your leadership skills are the toolkit that you use to make real and lasting change in your communities and succeed in your career. As a leadership scholar, you will learn and build skills that help you make decisions, speak in public, build community, and lead in ways both big and small. You'll be part of a cohort of students dedicated to becoming leaders and change-makers on campus and beyond.

As a Diplomat Leadership Scholar, you will:

From learning the power of intention and attitude through exploring Lancaster City in small groups, to visiting Clark Nature Preserve to see the impact of community partnerships firsthand, and from building communication best practices, to networking with alumni and local leaders, you will develop your own style of leadership while learning more about your own individual values and strengths. Leadership scholars have held various positions on campus, such as Student Body President, Head Writing Center Tutor, and Editor in Chief of the College Reporter, F&M's student-run newspaper.

In addition to developing leadership skills on campus, students engage with local nonprofits such as Leadership Lancaster, and work directly with members of the Lancaster community on meaningful off-campus initiatives.

Interested in Learning More?

Let us know by submitting our interest form. Students will be selected for this opportunity based on our holistic application review process after submitting an application to F&M.

“The Leadership Program has without a doubt been one of my favorite parts of being a student at F&M.”

"The ability to meet unique people with interesting perspectives, be connected to incredible opportunities, and form close bonds with my peers in the program are all such unique things that I don't think I would have gotten at any other school.”

— Ethan, Diplomat Leadership Participant

Apply to F&M

Ready to learn the Diplomat Way? Apply to F&M and take your first step toward an educational journey that’s distinctive to you.

Franklin & Marshall Leadership Fellows

Building a community of leaders to tackle real-world challenges — that's the Diplomat way. We offer several distinctive fellowship programs for students who are curious, motivated, and eager to make a positive and immediate impact in the fields of climate and sustainability, creative writing, entrepreneurship, and public service.

Scholarship Opportunities

F&M is dedicated to recruiting talented students from all backgrounds. To build a community of students who have track records of accomplishment and the potential to make significant contributions, we offer both merit scholarships and need-based aid.