On August 23, 2024, the College of Public Health at Temple University participated in the university’s annual Convocation celebration, welcoming over 1,000 new undergraduate and graduate students.
"Students are increasingly drawn to the College of Public Health and School of Social Work at Temple because they see our commitment to academic excellence, our focus on practical learning experiences, and our vibrant and diverse campus community. Students see that our amazing faculty and staff here are dedicated to helping students become real-world ready. Whether it’s through community engagement in our Philadelphia neighborhoods, fieldwork and clinical experiences that are built-into our programs, or our future home – Paley Hall – which will offer state-of-the-art facilities to learn and practice, CPH is making sure that students not only receive a top-tier education but also find a home where they can thrive both personally and professionally. CPH is quickly becoming the destination of choice for a new generation of health, healthcare, and social work professionals and clinicians,” said Michael Usino, Assistant Dean of Admissions at the College of Public Health.
This year, the school is celebrating a historic milestone with its most diverse incoming class to date. Over 70% of the new students identify as underrepresented minorities, reflecting the institution's commitment to fostering an inclusive and representative academic community who are passionate about equity in public health. This significant shift not only enriches campus life but also strengthens the college’s dedication to creating opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
In addition, the school is thrilled to welcome its most globally diverse incoming graduate class yet, with students hailing from over 20 different countries. This international representation brings a wealth of perspectives and experiences to campus, amplifies the academic environment and cultivates a truly global community, right here in Philadelphia. Such diversity underscores CPH's commitment to preparing students for an interconnected world by celebrating and learning from a broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds.
"I am delighted to welcome such a talented and diverse group of students to our college. The students bring great energy at the start of a new semester and our faculty and staff definitely felt it,” said Jennifer Ibrahim, Dean of the College of Public Health.
The College's convocation was a vibrant celebration, featuring over 40 programs, student groups, and organizations that welcomed the incoming class with giveaways, raffles, the annual convocation celebration t-shirt, and field games. This college-specific event was designed to foster a strong sense of community among new students, allowing them to connect more deeply with their peers, faculty, and the College's mission.