John Fry

John Fry is a nationally recognized higher education leader and the current President of Temple University. Known for his visionary and strategic leadership, Fry has dedicated his entire professional life to higher education, serving in roles including consultant, board member, COO, and university president.

Before joining Temple, Fry served as president of Drexel University, where he transformed the institution into a top-tier private research university with a strong public mission. Under his leadership, Drexel expanded its global partnerships, strengthened research capabilities, and completed a landmark merger with Salus University to broaden interprofessional health education. He also led efforts to create entrepreneurial programs, community partnerships, and major public-private initiatives, including the $3.5 billion Schuylkill Yards development.

Earlier in his career, Fry was president of Franklin & Marshall College and helped revitalize its academic programs, campus, and financial standing. He has served on numerous national boards, including the Kresge Foundation, the Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank, and the American Council on Education.

A Brooklyn native, Fry holds degrees from Lafayette College and NYU’s Stern School of Business. He and his wife, Cara, have three children.