An interactive open house set the stage for Temple’s new strategic plan, Forward with Purpose, inviting faculty and staff to learn about its key priorities and share feedback on the initiatives guiding the university’s future.

Temple University faculty and staff gathered last week in Mitten Hall for an open house introducing Forward with Purpose, the university’s new strategic plan. The Feb. 19 event gave attendees an opportunity to explore the plan’s priorities and initiatives while connecting with colleagues from across the university. 

Designed as an interactive experience, the open house invited participants to review the plan in depth, share feedback and ask questions about what the next phase of Temple’s growth will look like. 

Temple leadership welcomed attendees, including President John Fry and strategic plan co-chairs Interim Provost David Boardman and Vice Provost for Strategic Initiatives Richard Souvenir. Members of the Strategic Plan Steering and Executive Committees, representing Temple’s 17 schools and colleges and administrative divisions, were also present to discuss the collaborative process that shaped the plan. 

Forward with Purpose centers on three institutional priorities: Student Success, Research in Action and Place-based Impact. The plan is supported by three foundational principles: Innovation for Excellence, Partnerships and Operational and Financial Strength, which together outline the university’s direction through 2034. 

“It was exciting to see the priorities we’ll be focusing on as a university laid out in a way that fostered discussion and collaboration,” said Kristen Gallo, executive director of career services at the Temple University Career Center. “I had a chance to learn about key initiatives colleagues are working on and share information about the career development–focused initiatives reflected in the strategic plan.” 

Throughout the event, attendees moved between information stations highlighting each priority area and foundational principle. Faculty and staff received stickers to mark the initiatives they viewed as most important, creating a visual snapshot of shared interests across the Temple community. 

University leaders and steering committee members circulated throughout the space, answering questions and gathering feedback from participants. 

“The strategic planning open house felt energizing and collaborative, and it was great to connect with colleagues who care deeply about where we’re headed,” said Gallo. “I was especially excited to see career development initiatives reflected in the plan and to have the chance to talk with others about the work we’re doing to better prepare students for life after graduation.” 

One featured area focused on campus development, highlighting major facilities projects and recent acquisitions that will support the university’s future growth. Displays included information on Terra Hall and the Caroline Kimmel Pavilion for Arts and Communication, helping attendees visualize the physical spaces that will support Forward with Purpose. 

"The strategic plan open house highlighted what makes Temple such a special community, and I appreciated the opportunity to connect with staff and faculty from across the university to share input on the priorities and initiatives that matter most to our students, colleagues, alumni and North Philadelphia neighbors,” said Brent Baum, content producer in Temple’s Strategic Marketing and Communications division. “I’m looking forward to seeing the meaningful impact this plan will have in the years ahead."

As the event concluded, faculty and staff were encouraged to continue conversations within their schools and departments and explore ways to engage with the plan’s implementation. 

Although the strategic plan has now been formally introduced, university leaders emphasized that the work of implementation is just beginning. The open house marked an important first step in building shared understanding and momentum as Temple moves Forward with Purpose into action.