Diana Lombardi’s philosophy is simple – do what you love, work hard, and treat people with kindness and respect, as well as let your creativity flow. “Creativity has the power to build confidence, bring people together, and provide an outlet when they need it most,” said the owner and instructor of Abington Art Studio in Clarks Summit.
Lombardi’s passion for the arts began in high school and grew during her college years. She attended Wilkes University with a major in art education and a minor in psychology, and obtained her master’s degree in art education in 2020.
In addition to operating her business, the businesswoman has served as a public school art educator since 1997. “Education has always been at the core of who I am,” she admits. In 2011, when she was furloughed from the district, she chose to turn a professional setback into an opportunity and founded Abington Art Studio in 2012. “What could have been a discouraging chapter instead became a catalyst for building something meaningful for our community,” she noted.
In 2015, she returned to public education and currently teaches at Mountain View High School, balancing both her teaching career and her business. “Managing both roles requires dedication and strong time management, but it allows me to expand my impact across multiple generations of students,” she said.
As the owner of the business, Lombardi oversees all aspects of it, from teaching and curriculum development to daily operations, marketing, scheduling, and community partnerships. Over the years, the studio has grown to include a dedicated staff of seven team members, including teachers and studio assistants. “We work together to create a welcoming, safe, and inspiring environment, fostering artistic growth in our students,” she explains.
Throughout her journey, she has been fortunate to have mentors who guided her, including fellow educators and artists, such as Colleen Munley, who has made an extraordinary difference in her life. After establishing her own studio, the Art School of NEPA, her friend and mentor generously guided Lombardi through the early stages of building her business. “Her insight and practical advice gave me the confidence to move forward, and I credit her as a key reason I successfully launched my studio,” she explains.
The entrepreneur attributes her success to resilience, passion, and community support. “Several dedicated families have supported my business from the beginning and continue to support it today,” she said. One of her greatest challenges came during the pandemic in 2020, and facing great uncertainty, the business adapted quickly and found creative ways to stay connected with its students. “That experience reminded me of how essential art and creative spaces are, especially during difficult times,” she added.
Lombardi admits that she would not be where she is today without her family. Her mother, a cornerstone of her support system, has helped with the studio and business from day one. “Her belief in me never wavered,” she noted. Her husband and children have also supported her every step of the way, making sacrifices, offering encouragement, and celebrating each milestone alongside her.
Through both public education and Abington Art Studio, the art instructor is proud to provide children and adults in the area with access to the arts, helping them to discover pride and self-expression. “Being recognized among the Top 25 Women in Business is a tremendous honor, and it inspires me to continue building a business and community where creativity, resilience, and opportunity thrive for everyone,” she adds.
Diana Lombardi
Age: 53
Home: Clarks Summit
Title: Owner and Instructor
Company: Abington Art Studio, Depot Street, Clarks Summit