Temple University renames media school in honor of Lewis Klein

NORTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- It was a big day at Temple University.

Temple's media and communications school officially changed its name to the Lewis Klein College of Media and Communication in honor of Lewis Klein, a broadcasting pioneer who has ties to 6abc.

Klein's magnificent television career includes many titles: producer, executive, even pioneer.

But Lew's wife Janet says there's one title he holds above all else.

"Teaching has always been and always will continue to be Lew's innate skill," Janet said.

And so, how fitting that the school where he began teaching in 1952 is now officially named after him.

Still, over the years, Mr. Klein did more than teach.

He produced landmark programs like "American Bandstand" and "Captain Noah."

He helped launch the careers of TV icons like Dick Clark, Sally Starr, and comedian and actor Bob Saget, who was the host of the event Wednesday.

He took time to address Mr. Klein directly.

"You're just an exceptional man. You are one of the most caring, giving people. I feel like you're family to me," Saget said.

The list also includes 6abc President and General Manager Bernie Prazenica.

"Lewis taught thousands of students, but he has a way of making each one feel like the center of his attention," Prazenica said.

Along with his time, Mr. Klein has donated a tremendous amount of money to his beloved school.

But when it came time to formally receive this amazing honor, Mr. Klein took much of his time at the podium to talk about his wife.

"Janet, nothing would be anything if it were not for you. You are my life," Klein said.

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