Dear students,

As provost and chief academic officer of the university, I want to personally extend a warm welcome to you as you begin your Temple journey. As our newest class of Owls, you are making history. You are beginning your academic journey as we face a global health pandemic and the impact of 400 years of systemic, racial injustice. Our conversations on these and other important topics in the months ahead may be uncomfortable, but in that discomfort, we will find a way forward, together. We will need to listen to each other, respect and appreciate diverse opinions and demonstrate compassion as we work toward creating a better world. 

Two of my favorite parts of the arrival of our new students each year are Welcome Week and Convocation. This year, we are launching a two-week virtual experience for these two signature events. It begins on Monday, August 17 with Welcome Week, which you will find on welcome.temple.edu. You’ll find information about social events and an introduction to student services, clubs and organizations. Your next step is Convocation, which will officially launch your academic career. 

To begin your academic journey with Convocation, on Friday, August 21 please go to welcome.temple.edu or log on to TUportal where you’ll see the Next Steps tab. There you will find Temple Together, an interactive app with a rich compilation of events and resources to help you successfully navigate college life, achieve your academic goals and realize your career aspirations. By participating in events, you can earn points towards badges that make you eligible for various prizes. The first badge is the Convocation badge. To encourage your participation, and because I value Convocation, I have donated three new iPads which will be awarded through a drawing for those who complete the Convocation badge. 

One of the most important events of Convocation is your school or college meeting, which you are required to attend. You will receive more information from your dean or program chair about your first-year meeting and other events of interest. 

Remember, if you haven’t already done so, it’s not too late to sign up for Fly in 4, a special initiative to help you plan your academic path to a degree and graduate on time.

It’s fitting that our motto is Perseverance Conquers, reminding us that together we can push forward, prioritize taking care of each other and maintaining a healthy and safe environment. We do this because we are in this together, so we can be together, now and throughout your Temple career. 

Sincerely,

JoAnne A. Epps
Executive Vice President and Provost

Temple Together, is the theme as we return to campus and  the message this year is focused on public health--taking care of each other and ourselves during this pandemic. Perseverance is important at this time when our campus, community, state, region and nation focus on taking care of each other by practicing public health strategies that promote a safe environment for all.

Practicing the four pillars of public health

• Proper use of facial coverings
• Frequent hand-washing
• Maintaining a safe space between you and others
• Monitoring your own health on a daily basis

Arts, entertainment, culture and athletics

Temple is full of talented artists, musicians, performers and athletes. During your time here, we encourage you to immerse yourself in the various student performances, productions and activities offered throughout the University, as well as joining our Cherry and White supporters as they cheer on our student athletes. Go Owls!

Student Pledge

Developed by Temple Student Government leaders in 2010 to focus on bridging the gap between the Temple community and the outside community, the Student Pledge focuses on the three Cs of community service: commitment, consistency and consciousness. This pledge highlights the students’ commitment to a culture of caring about and respecting the people who live in the community.