Dear Students and Colleagues,

We are writing to let you know that Christopher M. Barnett has resigned as a member of our Board of Trustees. He has done so as he is recovering from a life-threatening medical event, but also at a time when he and his company face serious allegations, which Mr. Barnett strenuously denies and intends to defend vigorously. The university learned about these allegations in recent days and believes the actions outlined here are necessary at this time. We are grateful that Mr. Barnett has expressed a desire to avoid any negative impact on Temple and, in keeping with such desire, has cooperated with the university through this difficult process.

Given the complexity of the situation and the seriousness of the allegations, Temple University and Mr. Barnett have mutually agreed to terminate his $55 million philanthropic commitment that was announced in October 2025, which included the naming of the College of Public Health (CPH) along with several other spaces and programs across campus.

While no payments were yet due toward the $55 million commitment, the announcement last fall marked a momentous occasion for Temple as it was the largest philanthropic commitment in the university’s history. However, after careful deliberation, we believe that moving forward with the gift would not be in the best interest of Temple.

For students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of CPH, we recognize that this will be deeply disappointing. Please know that CPH remains one of Temple’s strongest academic units. As one of the largest colleges of its kind in the nation, its reputation and momentum will continue to grow, and we are committed to ensuring that it remains on a strong upward trajectory. Its presence within the state-of-the-art Paley Hall is just one visible illustration of how CPH will continue to be prioritized by the university.

Additionally, this action does not diminish the philanthropic momentum and strength of Temple. Even without Mr. Barnett’s commitment, fiscal year 2026 remains the most successful fundraising year in Temple’s history with $159 million raised. That record reflects the extraordinary confidence of our alumni, donors and friends in Temple and our future.

Our commitment to Temple’s mission of providing our students with an excellent education remains steadfast and we look forward to continuing this important work together.

Sincerely,

Mitchell L. Morgan
Chair, Board of Trustees

John Fry
President