Temple University receives a historic million donation from an alumnus who nearly faced rejection during the admission process.

Christopher Barnett, a noteworthy alumnus of Temple University, has made headlines following his recent philanthropic commitment of million to the institution, marking the largest donation in its history. This substantial contribution not only eclipses the previous record of .5 million set by Sidney and Caroline Kimmel but also underscores Barnett’s long-standing connection to the university and his dedication to improving the lives of its students.

Barnett’s academic journey began nearly two decades ago when he attempted to transfer to Temple from Florida community colleges. Although initially denied admission, Barnett’s persistence led him to visit the admissions office in person. After a lengthy wait, he was granted an opportunity to present his case directly to the director. This encounter culminated in his acceptance to the university on the spot. True to his word, Barnett excelled academically, graduating with a 4.0 GPA.

The recent donation will significantly benefit Temple’s College of Public Health, with million earmarked specifically for the establishment of an autism center. The remainder of the funds will support scholarships, academic programs, and resources intended to enhance student success. As part of this transformative gift, the public health college will be renamed in Barnett’s honor.

The announcement of his donation coincided with the grand opening of the newly renovated Paley Hall, a 0 million facility central to Temple’s campus. This moment marks a significant milestone in Barnett’s philanthropic trajectory; prior to this, he had already contributed million to create the ABA Centers Autism Lab and provided support for student initiatives, including a food pantry that bears his name.

Barnett, who serves as the CEO of the Fort Lauderdale-based ABA Centers of America, which specializes in autism care, has shown a commitment to blending his professional success with meaningful community contributions. As a high school dropout who ultimately earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a law degree, he embodies the transformative power of education. His journey from operating his first business at 18 to leading a company that supports families across 60 locations illustrates his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to enhancing accessibility to quality care for those with developmental challenges.

John Fry, the current president of Temple University, noted that Barnett’s contribution not only elevates the university’s profile but also serves as an exemplary model of giving back to the institution that fostered his growth. As Temple aims to enhance its fundraising efforts and level its philanthropic support with top-ranked institutions, Barnett’s gift is a vital step in that direction.

With ongoing challenges in higher education funding and increasing competition among universities for resources, Barnett’s substantial contribution reflects a commitment not only to academic excellence but also to ensuring future generations have the support they need to succeed. His intentions resonate with many—creating a positive impact while encouraging others to help those who face similar obstacles he once encountered.