To the Temple University community, 

Later this week, my third tenure as Temple University’s president will come to an end. As I prepare to depart from this role, I wanted to take moment to address the Temple family—students, faculty, physicians, health professionals, staff, alumni and neighbors—one last time as president. 

Nearly 50 years ago, my wife Ellie and I arrived in Philadelphia and at Temple University. Admittedly, at the time, I knew little about this institution but at the urging of a dear friend, I accepted the role of assistant to the dean in what is now called the College of Education and Human Development. It turns out that it was among the best decisions that I have ever made. 

In the years since, while holding 17 different positions, I have watched this university grow and change in remarkable ways. And yet, throughout all the change, there has been one constant: Temple and its people are truly the best. It has been an honor to serve you, and there is nothing that I have enjoyed more than cheering you on as you have worked tirelessly to support this institution. 

As you know, Temple is an extraordinary place. We are a university with a mission built upon access, opportunity, engagement and discovery. It is a mission that puts us in a class of our own, but we are only able to fulfill that mission because of your efforts.  

Over the last year, we have made significant progress with our enrollment, we have made strides in public safety and we were once again ranked among the top 100 national universities in the country. Our health system also continues to demonstrate excellence in patient care, working to serve this community by addressing the root causes of health disparities. All these accomplishments directly reflect your work, and I could not be prouder to have served as president while we achieved them. 

While I am stepping down from the role of president, I won’t be going far. I will resume the role of chancellor, and before long, I will be back in the classroom again. Even now, nearly 50 years later, I remain a teacher at heart. 

I am also eager to assist President-elect John Fry during the transition process. We have been colleagues and friends for years, and I know from firsthand experience that he is the ideal person to assume the presidency. I have no doubt that he will help propel Temple to even greater heights. 

Finally, as I have said so many times, and from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for all you do. I also want to extend a special thank you to Ellie. She has given just as much to this university as I have, and I speak for the entire Temple community when I say that we are eternally grateful to her. 

For one last time, I will now sign off as Temple University’s president. I do so with pride, optimism, gratitude and, of course, love. 

Sincerely, 

Richard M. Englert 
President