Dear Colleagues,  

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to share how grateful I am to be a part of this remarkable university.  

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of meeting many of you and learning more about the work you do in service to our students and the university. I have seen firsthand how each of you embraces Temple’s mission, advancing student success and academic excellence every single day. Your dedication and hard work make Temple stronger, and I am deeply grateful for your teaching, research and service. All of these activities are valuable contributions to the energy and momentum of our university. 

In that same spirit of community, I want to celebrate a special moment of Temple pride. Next week, our Diamond Marching Band will spend the holiday in New York City, performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is broadcast nationally on NBC. On Wednesday, they will appear on The Today Show. These performances are even more special because they coincide with the band’s 100th anniversary. Be sure to tune in to NBC for both broadcasts. 

During this upcoming break, I hope you find time to relax, reflect and enjoy time with those who matter most to you.  

With that in mind, I am happy to share that this year, the university will close at noon on Wednesday, Nov. 26, so people can get home early to prepare for their holiday celebrations. Essential employees required to work a full shift that day will be credited with compensation time equivalent to half of their full shift for that day. This is a heartfelt recognition of how hard you work to support this university and its community.  

Additionally, as we look toward winter break, the university will close at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 23, giving all of you a well-deserved early start to the break. And finally, employees will not need to use a vacation day on Friday, Jan. 2, to extend their holiday break.  

I wish you all a peaceful, joyful and safe Thanksgiving holiday. 

Warm regards,  

John Fry  
President