LA PLATA, Md. — The College of Southern Maryland has renamed its Learning Resource Center in recognition of a major gift from Lorraine Diana ’79 and Robert Guite that will support students for years to come.
The facility was officially renamed the Lorraine Diana ’79 and Robert Guite Learning Resource Center during a ceremony on May 29, 2026. The couple established the Lorraine Diana ’79 and Robert Guite Pathways to Possibility Fund, which provides scholarships and support resources for students facing financial hardship, with a focus on nursing, engineering, and robotics programs. The fund also supports initiatives promoting social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson highlighted the broad reach of the gift during the ceremony. “Your vision reaches every corner of this institution, every stage of a student’s journey, and perhaps most importantly, it reaches students who simply need someone to believe in them,” Wilson said. “Thank you for believing in the transformative power of education, and for choosing to create opportunities that will extend beyond this moment and impact students’ lives forever.”
The Learning Resource Center serves as a central hub for student success at CSM. It houses the college library, math and writing resource centers, and additional academic support services.
CSM Foundation Board Chair Samantha Stratchko ’18 emphasized how the gift removes barriers for students. “Bob and Lorraine’s generosity represents more than a gift, it is a statement of confidence in our students and this institution,” Stratchko said. “Through their Pathways to Possibility Fund, they are helping students not only access education but thrive through it.”
Diana, a member of CSM’s first graduating nursing class in 1979, and Guite have deep roots at the college. Four generations of their family have attended community college. Diana’s former professor, Peggy DeStefanis, spoke about Diana’s long-standing commitment to helping others. “The greatest gifts that we receive are often the gifts that we give away,” DeStefanis said.
The couple’s philanthropic work in Charles County began with a backpack program for children in need and later expanded to include food assistance. Diana said the experience shaped their view of education as a tool for economic mobility. “Education is the most powerful thing we have for helping people change their economic circumstances,” Diana said. “We named the fund Pathways to Possibility because that is exactly what CSM does: it meets people where they are and opens doors to what’s next.”
Guite stressed the role of community colleges in regional progress. “CSM is a cornerstone for our region’s progress, strengthening our community’s social fabric and offering opportunities for every stage of learning,” Guite said. “Our goal is this: prepare families and individuals with pathways to possibilities.”
The couple hopes their gift encourages others to support local education and community initiatives.
