Acting President Richard M. Englert used his last report to the university Board of Trustees to highlight the achievements of Temple's students. For those who have worked with Englert during his 36 years at Temple, it was not a surprising move.

"Our students are second to none, and the unique opportunities they have here at Temple, under the tutelage of a world-class faculty, enable them to experience and do amazing things," Englert said.

He also took the opportunity to briefly reflect on his role as acting president.

"As my term as Temple’s acting president draws to a close, I want to personally thank you for your outstanding support over these last six months. It has been a tremendous honor to work closely with each of you," Englert said. "Thank you for this great opportunity to serve our wonderful university, which all of us love so well."

Englert's term as acting president comes to a close on Dec. 31, and Neil Theobald takes the reins as Temple's 10th president on Jan. 1, 2013.

"I am confident that President-elect Theobald will be a truly great leader for Temple University and that Temple will flourish in his very capable hands," Englert told the board members. "I know you will support him and work with him in a rewarding and productive partnership.

"Be assured, I will lend him my full support and assistance as he takes on the responsibilities of leader of this great university," added Englert.

He and Theobald have developed a strong working relationship in recent months, either talking or emailing each other every day.

As a sign of their gratitude to Englert, trustees unanimously voted to designate him as a chancellor of the university, starting Jan. 1. Englert joins former presidents Peter J. Liacouras and David Adamany as chancellors, an honorary position at the university.

And, for the first time in his career, Englert will eschew administrative duties in favor of teaching at the College of Education, after he takes a one-year sabbatical.

In remarks before the board voted on the chancellor resolution, Board of Trustees Chairman Patrick J. O'Connor said the university was fortunate to have someone as dedicated as Englert, who has always responded when Temple called.

"We have been blessed to have Dick as president for the last six months. It's been a great pleasure working with him. The relationship that he has with the Temple community is second to none," said O'Connor.

"I know that he has built a great relationship with Neil Theobald and our next president has some very large shoes to fill," remarked the chairman. "There is no more fitting way to thank you for your service to Temple than to confer on you the title of chancellor."

Englert said he continues to be willing to respond should Temple come calling in the future.

"I'm happy to be of help to you at any time in the service our Temple mission," Englert said.