Dear students, 

Whether you’re a returning student or joining us as a new first-year or transfer student, I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to each of you. I am honored to serve you and this university as your acting president as we seek to make a difference in this world.

As we start a new academic year, I am excited to see Temple continue to shine. We are among an elite group of universities in the “highest research activity” category, or R1, placing us among the top 4% of all four-year institutions in the nation. Last year, we achieved a milestone of $300 million in research expenditures, solidifying Temple as one of the fastest-growing research universities in the country. And be sure to check out some of our faculty’s groundbreaking achievements, which both enhance your learning environment and also shape a better future both on campus and beyond.

Our diversity also defines us. For a fourth straight year, we have welcomed the most diverse class ever to our campus, and we are proud of our collaborative community of high-quality faculty and staff, who foster inclusion and encourage you and all your aspirations.

Providing a safe and supportive environment for our students is one of our top priorities. This summer, we introduced the TUSafe app and other enhancements to public safety. In addition, our many partnerships across Philadelphia showcase our commitment to serving our community and addressing crucial issues of concern to all of us committed to ensuring a safe and vibrant community.

Never underestimate your ability to contribute and make a difference. Our success relies on the collaboration and contributions of each and every university community member. Beyond the classroom, I encourage you to join me in cheering for our athletes, appreciating the performances of your peers and fully exploring our vibrant campuses.

I would be remiss if I did not mention our new Owl mark, which we just introduced earlier this month. I encourage you all to wear your Temple gear and show off your Temple pride. Our new students who attended last week’s Convocation ceremony already know that I do the same.

Please stop me and say hello if you happen to see me on campus this fall. And sometimes I will stop you—just to check in to see how you’re doing. I wish you all the best and look forward to seeing all that we can accomplish together in this new academic year.

Sincerely, 

JoAnne A. Epps
Acting President