PASL Honors Temple’s President John Fry
On February 13, 2025, PASL was honored to host John Fry, the 15th President of Temple University, as the featured speaker in its evening “Dinner with a Decision Maker” series. Convened three times a year, PASL’s speakers series brings together current and senior Neubauer Fellows with local and national thought leaders to envision the future of educational excellence and student achievement in Philadelphia. President Fry’s work as national advocate for higher education, strategic leadership, and commitment to community progress, serves as a guiding model in our Neubauer Fellows’ work toward a stronger and more connected Philadelphia.
President John Fry took office as Temple University’s 15th president on November 1, 2024. From 2010 to 2024, he served as president of Drexel University. There, he elevated the university’s global presence through academic and research partnerships, major NIH and NSF research programs, and hubs for innovation and collaboration. Under President Fry’s leadership, Drexel became a national example of successful public-private partnerships and a powerful force for economic development in the Greater Philadelphia region. He championed major neighborhood revitalization initiatives, including the creation of the Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships in Mantua, extensive economic development efforts, and significant partnerships to support local neighborhood public schools.
The dinner also recognized Dr. Darryl Johnson (2024 Neubauer Fellow), recipient of PASL’s Shining Light Award for his outstanding achievements as Principal of Carver High School of Engineering and Science. The Shining Light Award recognizes Neubauer Fellows who are currently leading schools and implementing innovative practices that best serve the needs of all students. Since becoming principal of Carver High in August 2021, Dr. Johnson has driven remarkable progress in his school. His leadership has been pivotal in fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Under his guidance, Carver students have achieved impressive growth, particularly evident in the Winter STAR assessment results. Carver students displayed exceptional growth, with an average Student Growth Percentage of 64% in reading and 68% in math—exceeding the national median of 50%. These achievements are a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence fostered by Dr. Johnson and the entire Carver staff.
A night to celebrate our Fellows’ achievements and honor the work of our speakers, PASL’s February “Dinner with a Decision Maker” brought together a community committed to building an educational future that lifts up all Philadelphia students.
