“Temple University is having a bit of a moment.”

That’s the opening line of PhillyVoice’s interview with President Neil D. Theobald, who participated in the news outlet’s “Five for Friday” series, which highlights leaders in Greater Philadelphia.

Amid the university’s surge in U.S. News & World Report rankings and construction activity that will change the face of campus, the president discusses how he hears directly from students (in part by teaching a freshman class) and faculty (by hosting weekly lunches with no agenda) in order to stay focused on their success.

He also describes an alumnus he admires, what’s been surprising about Philadelphia since moving here and why barbecuing with students is so much fun.

“Temple has a unique student body—really bright, energetic and unspoiled,” he said. “They love this university, and their passion for Temple is such a joy to share.”

Read the full PhillyVoice interview.