Anthony E. Wagner, current acting treasurer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was selected out of a pool of 30 candidates to be Temple’s new chief financial officer. Wagner will be responsible for development and management on all fiscal operations. He will also serve as the university’s vice president based on the administrative realignment President Dr. Ann Weaver Hart enacted Jan. 1.
Following the Jan. 15 resignation of Martin Dorph, a national search was conducted by Brill Neumann Associates, a private firm, to find a new CFO with at least 10 years of experience in a fiscal position. In the past, Wagner worked both in higher education and with the Commonwealth.
Prior to serving as acting treasurer for the Commonwealth, Wagner was the director of governmental relations at Penn State. He was also a special assistant to the senior vice president for finance and business.
“I enjoy the rhythm of university life,” Wagner said. “It’s exciting to know that the work I do will provide a certain environment for students.”
Wagner said that his broad administrative
experience and exposure to complex organizations will help him be ready for his first day at Temple.
“So far, I’ve met all of the staff and got the chance to sit in on meetings,” Wagner said of the transition.
“I’ve learned about financing and admissions. I’ve gotten a very strong preview and [I] am already climbing the learning curve.”
William Bergman, vice president of the Executive Office of the President, met Wagner during one of his visits to campus.
“He is personable, energetic and knowledgeable in the financial system. These reasons and more make him a natural fit for Temple,” Bergman said.
Wagner has received briefs on three major development projects: Alter Hall, the relocation of the Tyler School of Art and the development of the new medical school building.
In her inauguration speech, Hart said the university’s budget could no longer be based solely on student’s tuition. Wagner said Temple plans to raise state appropriations and increase revenue through private philanthropy and research.
“I am excited to help the team,” Wagner said. “I’m very prepared to take great strides to keep tuition as low as possible.”
Megan Kelsey can be reached at mkelsey@temple.edu.
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