Sawyer Business School alumnus Leonard J. Samia has pledged a generous gift in his family’s name to support the construction of seven lobbies in the University’s new 20 Somerset St. academic building, which is slated to open in fall of 2015.

The naming of the lobbies recognizes the Samia family legacy at Suffolk University. Samia received a bachelor of science degree in business administration; his daughter Olivia graduated in 2012 with a degree in communications and advertising; daughter Alexandra earned a master’s degree in business administration in 2011; and his son Derek is a student in the Sawyer Business School.

Samia is a major contributor to the University’s advancement efforts. His largesse is focused on helping students achieve their educational goals. In 2007 he established the Bert J. Samia endowed scholarship in his father’s name to support the financial needs of many deserving Sawyer Business School students annually.

The Samia Companies LLC, a diversified real estate firm in Brighton, is a family owned business. Samia’s philanthropy extends within the company, providing financial aid for the educational pursuits of many of his employees, their families and children of other business associates.

Suffolk’s 20 Somerset Street facility will provide students with technology-enhanced instructional space for science and general-study classrooms. It will include a café, student-support services and indoor and outdoor lounging areas.