Michael Burch, EDU ’88, has spent the last four decades since earning his master’s degree at Temple embodying the pride of being an educator, community leader and advocate for science. From nearly 30 years of service at the Franklin Institute to his work as a community organizer in the Parkside area, it has all culminated in this moment: being selected as a 2025 honoree for Smith Playground’s distinguished Leaders and Legends of Philadelphia award. Humility is ever-present when speaking with Burch, a self-described “lifelong learner” who remains as committed as ever to the value of following one’s passion and the importance in shaping young minds.

The following Q&A has been condensed for clarity and conciseness.

One of your teaching positions was at St. Gabriel’s Hall in Audubon, PA—I’m actually from there! It closed a few years ago, which was a loss for the community. 

Oh wow. I spent nearly 10 years there. It was a wonderful experience. It gave young men with troubles opportunities for growth. I was talking to one of those young men recently on Facebook. He’s quite successful now, and it was a turning point in his life. 

That’s so great to hear that you keep in touch! In the early 90s, you began working at the Franklin Institute where you stayed until 2020. What was your role there? 

Working at the Franklin Institute was the most interesting and versatile part of my career. I ultimately ran an education program for middle and high school students. I had a couple of different positions, but I was the director of youth programs for a significant period. This involved weekend workshops, summer programs and school initiatives designed to encourage young people to pursue careers in science or technology. 

Speaking of science, when did you first get interested in the subject? Was it at a young age? 

It was from a very young age. Some of my friends from the past recently reminded me that I’ve always been a "nerd." (Laughs) I had a mother who was very supportive. I’d ask for a telescope, microscope or chemistry set for Christmas, and she’d get them for me. That really helped build my interest in science. 

Well, it clearly paid off, given your success. You’ve been very involved in your community in Parkside, near Fairmount Park, creating the Parkside Journal and serving on several community boards in the area. What’s your favorite aspect of being involved, and why do you think it’s so important? 

As a youth, I spent a lot of time in the park, which developed my interest in natural science. The neighborhood was nurturing but had its challenges, particularly in the late 80s. In the early 2000s, after my mother passed, I moved back into my childhood home. I was working at the Franklin Institute at the time, so it was a natural decision. After moving back, I started looking around and seeing things that needed attention. That’s when I began getting involved. 

That leads me to your honor from Smith Playground this year, as one of their 2025 honorees for the Leaders and Legends of Philadelphia award. How does it feel to be given this award and being in such great company with others like Michael Nutter, Patty Jackson, Mo’ne Davis, Quinta Brunson and more? 

It was amazing. I was honored to be recognized for my work. I was aware of the award and some past recipients, but when I got the call, I was humbled. I had been just doing my thing and had been fortunate to be successful. The ceremony was incredible. We had a press conference with 150 young students from a nearby charter school, and the questions they asked were amazing. I talked to them about the importance of family support. My father passed when I was 10, and I remember my mother, who was a rock, being nervous about raising me on her own. She did an incredible job, and I owe so much to her support. 

That’s wonderful. For students in the sciences today, what advice would you give to those interested in pursuing this field, given your prolific career? 

Follow your dreams. There will be discouraging times, and science can be rigorous. Focus on the basics—math and engineering skills are crucial depending on your field. Try to enjoy what you’re doing. I’ve always loved science, and I think it’s easier now than when I was young. The resources are endless—there's so much more access to information today.

What’s next for you after receiving this honor?  

I’m a lifelong learner, so I’ll always be involved in something. Right now, I’m working with the History Hunters program in Germantown. I’m introducing young people to history, not science, by taking them on tours of historic buildings in Philadelphia and the Germantown region. It’s a great way to reach these kids and teach them about history and science, which I believe are intertwined. 
 
Lastly, how has your connection been with the Temple alumni community over the years? 

It’s been sporadic. When I started working at the Franklin Institute, I was pulled into a new world. Outside of contributions to the alumni group, I’d occasionally run into other Temple alums. It’s always nice when I see someone with Temple tags on their car out at the supermarket or bookstore. I don’t have it on right now, but I usually have a Temple T-shirt or sweatshirt on this time of the year! (Laughs) Temple took a guy who wanted to do something who didn't know quite what to do and had the right professors and instructors there to guide him in the direction that he wanted to go. Now I'm so thankful that I decided to go to Temple. It was the right thing for me to do at the right time. I’ll always be grateful for that.