Dear students, colleagues and alumni, 

For decades, Temple University’s academic programs in the Klein College of Media and Communication and the Center for the Performing and Cinematic Arts have grown and prospered within the Annenberg Hall/Tomlinson Theater building complex. These are hallmark programs of the university—programs that draw students from around the globe—but they now face limitations due to their outdated facilities. 

That is about to change. 

I am delighted to formally share that this spring, Temple will break ground on a new building on the west side of North Broad Street that will expand and modernize teaching spaces for Klein; the School of Theater, Film and Media Arts; and the Boyer College of Music and Dance. But just as importantly, it will also serve as a community hub for gathering, learning and entertainment. 

This is a pathbreaking project both for Temple and North Philadelphia. This new, state-of-the-art facility will provide resources and opportunities that will prepare a more agile and adaptable workforce of future journalists, media makers, communicators and performing artists. It will also further our engagement with North Philadelphia, offering spaces for live entertainment, educational experiences and cultural activities. 

The project recently completed both the legislative and land use approval process, and I want to thank our project delivery group, spearheaded by Vice President for Planning and Capital Projects Jerry Leva and Associate Vice President Martin Droz, for their work on this effort. I also would like to thank Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Impact Valerie Harrison and our Office of Community Affairs and Engagement for working to ensure that our community partners were an integral part of this process. 

As we approach the official groundbreaking, we will be sharing more news about this project. Until then, I invite you to learn more about the new facility. 

Sincerely, 

John Fry 
President