March 12, 2002
I
want to thank the renowned artist, Charles Schmidt, Professor of Painting at
Tyler. He probably never faced a greater hurdle or more harrowing experience
than having me as a subject for a portrait.
Thank you, Chuck, for honoring me with your artistry.
I am honored that my portrait now hangs alongside those of my six predecessor Presidents of Temple University. It was my honor, as it was theirs, to serve the people and programs of this institution, for many years through the good times and the bad.
Only
in America could poor, industrious, honest immigrants dream previously
unimaginable dreams, and not only have those dreams fulfilled, but have their
son’s portrait now hanging alongside esteemed predecessors … and all this
in less than 100 years since my parents immigrated to the United States from
Greece.
Again, I thank the Board
of Trustees for the opportunity to lead this great institution, for your
commitment and support over the years, especially to Dick Fox, our long-time
Chairman and friend, and our present Chairman Howard Gittis, a worthy
successor, for their leadership and good example.
I
feel proud to be associated with the students and dedicated faculty, with
those who assist and support them, with our alumni, with our caregivers, with
members of the larger community and with friends of the University.
I reiterate my respect for them as living proof of the vitality and
worth of Temple’s mission.
Significantly for the
future: I thank David Adamany for his commitment to excellence and his
willingness to serve and lead this great university to new heights.
Later this afternoon, Barrack Hall will be dedicated. There is a powerful symbol in dedicating the regenerated Barrack Hall on the same day that we unveil a portrait from the past.
College
Hall was Temple’s original classroom building.
Through the philanthropy of alumnus Leonard and Lynne Barrack and the
brilliant initiatives of Dean and Vice President Robert J. Reinstein, it has
been redesigned and reoriented as Barrack Hall for the education of future
generations of students.
In
the same way, Temple University has flourished because it is grounded in a
history that has encouraged change – progressive change consistent with the
fundamental goals of free inquiry, the search for truth, and human dignity.
We
respect our history not because we like to dwell in the past but because we
can learn from history and thus help shape a better tomorrow in fulfilling our
mission. That
has always been Temple’s way.
I’m
pleased with this symbol of regeneration, continuity and human progress with
its emphasis on the future.
May
God continue to bless our students, faculty, alumni, administrators,
community, friends and the others who comprise this precious Temple
University, and most particularly you, the Board of Trustees, stewards of our
future.