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Assistant Dean's Message - December 2023

December 2023

 

December 1 marked my first anniversary with the CEHD, and what an amazing year! I thought it would be fun to highlight some of my favorite moments from the year. While I could go on and on, I have limited myself to these five. 

  • #5 Coffee and convos: the CEHD has an informal coffee conversation every month. The opportunity to meet with faculty and staff helped me make early connections to the programs and departments at the college. 
  • #4 Temple Made Days showcased Gallery of Success nominees, 30 under 30 award recipients and the scholarship reception. The stories coming from Owls around the world are inspirational. 
  • #3 Commencement activities at the university brought such excitement to campus the second week of May. 
  • #2 Homecoming and Tailgate Village were festive and fun. I loved seeing all our Temple Owls in one place. 
  • And topping the list at #1—meeting Stella up close and personal. I have learned so much about owls! 

I would be remiss if I didn't send a wonderful shout-out with great appreciation to the team at the CEHD and to each of you. Thank you for your willingness to share your story and for your generous support. Cheers to the start of year two! 

All the best to you this holiday season, and warm wishes for 2024,

Kirsten Halker-Kratz

Assistant Dean, Development and Alumni Relations

January 2025

Recently, I was the organist for a funeral of a gentleman who hiked over 216,000 miles over the span of three decades. Such a remarkable feat! He called these hikes his “journeys,” and enjoyed each of them, even if it was merely a quick walk in our local state park.

One of the best aspects of my role is hearing about your journey. I ask what brought you to Temple, to the CEHD, to your current career. Your responses are varied, but one thing is consistent from alum to alum—preparation. Your time in the nest prepared you for whatever hike you ventured upon. Often you have a mentor/professor that fortified your steps along the way. Your recollection of classes you enjoyed, internships you completed, friendships you made all shaped your Temple adventure. Thank you for giving me that opportunity to share your trek with others, and for a chance to inspire alumni to give back their time, talent and treasure to the college.

From fledgling owlets to Temple Owls, I hope to hear more of these stories as we start 2025. You can reach me at .

Warmly,

Kirsten Halker-Kratz

Assistant Dean, Development and Alumni Relations