Tuesday’s Board of Trustees vote to approve Neil Theobald as Temple's 10th president capped a busy two days of activity for the university's incoming leader.

Before the vote, Theobald met with staff, students and faculty in town-hall style public sessions that gave members of the community an opportunity to ask questions and hear his perspective on Temple’s strengths and challenges.

Stepping in front of the lectern, Theobald described his excitement about joining the university and outlined the experiences that have prepared him to take on the role as Temple president. He will join Temple Jan. 1 from Indiana University, where he serves as senior vice president and chief financial officer.

Many participants in the sessions walked away impressed with Dr. Theobald’s qualifications and candor.

“He struck me as a really open and personable individual,” said senior Ofo Ezeugwu, one of the student leaders attending the Tuesday student forum. “We were able to ask him questions and really get a gage on the new president coming in this year.”

Theobald also met with representatives of the Temple University Alumni Association, members of the Presidential Search Committee and university trustees. He left impressed with the level of excitement and engagement among all members of the Temple community.

“It is the dream of a lifetime to be able to come here,” he said. “I’m proud to be an Owl.”