Temple University has selected John Fry of Drexel University as its new president, following the unexpected death of acting President JoAnne Epps last fall. Fry, who has been the president of Drexel since 2010, will take over the role at Temple after Drexel names a new leader. Fry’s appointment was confirmed by a unanimous vote of Temple’s board of trustees.
Fry has outlined his priorities as improving campus safety and fostering commercial development of Temple’s research pursuits. He has experience in similar efforts at Drexel and Franklin and Marshall College. Epps, who took over as acting president before her untimely death, has been praised for her contributions during her short tenure.
The previous president, Jason Wingard, resigned after less than two years amid faculty union concerns about falling enrollment, financial issues, and labor disputes. Wingard had also cited a surge of violence in the area around the campus, including the tragic shooting of a Temple University police officer.
Fry’s appointment comes at a challenging time for the 30,500-student university, but his experience and leadership are expected to bring stability and growth to Temple University. The close proximity of Temple and Drexel in Philadelphia will allow for a smooth transition as Fry takes on his new role.
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