F&M Stories

For Nick Ross, it's the Phi Kappa Sigma house. For Nicolás David Cortez, it's the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. For Josary Valeiron, it's Martin Library.

With Commencement fast approaching, seven Franklin & Marshall College seniors shared their most meaningful space on campus.

They're among the 560 students that will gather one final time during the 2022 Commencement ceremony May 14.

Some will pursue master's degrees. Some are awaiting Fulbright assignments. Some will be the first in their family to graduate.

"I enjoyed how much I grew to appreciate those around me and how important it was to create a community. I connected with many exceptional other first-generation students, students of color, and LGBTQ+ students," said Cortez, who will graduate with a major in American studies and a minor in Latinx/Latin American studies.

While students will depart campus physically, the relationships forged at F&M will stay with them for a lifetime.

"My journey here has granted me a family I know I can rely on in the near future, which I am beyond grateful for," said Valeiron, who anticipates a career in public health.

"My professors provided strong advocacy on my behalf and true friendship. I am confident in moving forward after F&M because I know that they will continue to support me in all of my work," said Lydia Shaw, an English literature and American studies double major.

While Shaw is uncertain about post-graduation plans, she knows she can count on the Diplomat network.

"What I do know is that I will be in New York City — there is an F&M alum community waiting for me there, too," she said.

F&M Commencement Details

Franklin & Marshall's 2022 Commencement ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 14, indoors at the Alumni Sports & Fitness Center. Guest attendance is strictly limited to the graduates and their pre-registered guests only.

The event will be livestreamed and recorded to allow anyone to view the celebration at their convenience.