I am delighted to welcome you to Temple University’s 2012 academic year! I offer an especially warm welcome to the newest members of our community who are just starting out at Temple: more than 4,300 freshmen and nearly 2,700 transfer students.

Temple is a vibrant urban university constantly growing in quality and influence. Our academic programs continue to earn recognition for their quality and outcomes. Our research also earns accolades and helps solve the most pressing problems of our day.

Temple University’s growth and vitality can also be measured in the many construction projects underway across the Main Campus. The new architecture building on 13th Street is well on its way toward completion by January of next year. Great progress is also being made on the remodeled student athletic and recreation facilities in Pearson and McGonigle Halls on Broad Street, which will reopen in early 2012. The new student residential complex on Broad Street will be taking shape in the months ahead, and design planning continues for the new science education and research building on 12th Street.

Most importantly, the positive spirit that has characterized Temple University from its founding is alive and well at this great university. Our students are making a difference in Philadelphia and in the world. Those of you who are new to Temple should seek out volunteer opportunities through one of our many student organizations. A growing number of students have also joined TALON, Temple's advocacy network, to make their voices heard in Harrisburg when important issues like public education funding are discussed.

I strongly encourage you to follow your passion in your studies and extracurricular activities this year. I guarantee that this year will be exciting and inspiring as you contribute to Temple University, our great city and the world.