Temple University celebrates Philadelphia’s legacy and future in welcoming visitors during America's 250th year.
A Temple ad at NRG Station following the Brazil vs. Ghana FIFA game.
Photo by Intersection
America’s 250th birthday and sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup, MLB All Star Game and PGA Championship were just a few of the major happenings taking center stage in Philadelphia this year.
The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia is promoting the region through a new campaign, and Temple is proudly joining the effort to welcome visitors to Philadelphia.
With millions of visitors expected to visit Philadelphia throughout this milestone year, the Chamber’s campaign positions Philadelphia as one of the nation’s most powerful destinations. The Chamber’s vision closely aligns with Forward with Purpose, Temple’s strategic plan unveiled earlier this year, which identifies Place-based Impact as one of its three priorities.
“Civic engagement is woven into our institution, and as we welcome millions to our region, Temple is proud to partner with the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia in promoting our great city as a vibrant place to live, work and learn,” said John Fry, president of Temple University. “Our commitment to Place-based impact is a key part of our roadmap for the future as we foster relationships with community partners and work together to enhance economic mobility across Philadelphia.”
The Chamber’s Where First Meets Next campaign highlights Philadelphia’s historical foundation while promoting the city as a dynamic hub for business growth, corporate investment and top talent.
“Our campaign is about showcasing the very best of Greater Philadelphia to a global audience,” said Chellie Cameron, president and chief executive officer of the Chamber. “Temple University’s support strengthens that effort by highlighting the people, ideas and institutions that drive our region forward. Together, we are creating a welcoming experience for visitors while reinforcing Philadelphia’s reputation as a destination for talent, innovation and growth.”
Throughout the summer of 2026, Temple is supporting Philadelphia and the Chamber’s theme by connecting the past and the future through a temporary twist on the brand campaign the university launched in the fall of 2025.
At that time, “Real Success is Temple Made” clearly defined what it means to be Temple Made, not only for the university community but for residents and visitors to Philadelphia. Brand messaging appeared on buses, billboards and trains pairing powerful descriptors with “Real” to express how the university empowers its vibrant, tenacious community, driving personal growth, career success, transformation and innovation in Philadelphia and around the world.
Now, for the summer of 2026, Temple is leaning into Philadelphia’s history and supporting the Chamber’s theme by connecting the past and the future. In various locations across the city the “Real” descriptor phrases are paired with “In a city built on bold ideas,” connecting Temple’s mission to Philadelphia’s legacy as America’s birthplace.
When visitors land at Philadelphia International Airport or explore landmarks throughout the city, they will be greeted by signs, such as “Real Passion, In a city built on bold ideas;” and “Real Progress, In a city built on bold ideas,” and more. The advertisements also incorporate a Liberty Bell icon and select pieces of the campaign feature Temple’s 30 Under 30 award recipients, showcasing the next generation of leaders shaping the city and beyond.
Temple has a strong, ongoing collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. The university is an active member of the organization through leadership roles, partnerships and programming. President Fry serves on the chamber’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee and served as its board chair from 2016-2018. In March, Temple Trustee Ellen Cooper, FOX ’85, was honored with the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia’s 2026 Paradigm Award, the region’s most prestigious award for a businesswoman.
As Philadelphia’s public research university, Temple’s unique take on this campaign reinforces the university’s commitment to Place-based Impact by celebrating the city as a destination for innovation, opportunity and bold ideas while putting a spotlight on its accomplished alumni.
