JoAnne A. Epps, a long-time member and acting president of the National Association of Women Lawyers (NAWL), has passed away. She was also a professor of law at Temple University. The NAWL expressed their heartbreak over the loss of this luminary in their community.
We're heartbroken to share that our community has lost a luminary in the passing of JoAnne A. Epps. JoAnne was a long-time NAWL member and acting president and professor of law at @TempleUniv.https://t.co/ODiCpSMmtd
Photo: Temple University pic.twitter.com/yjX0iyigUV
— National Association of Women Lawyers (@NAWLWomeninLaw) September 20, 2023
We are deeply saddened to report the untimely passing of JoAnne A. Epps, a prominent figure in the legal community and a highly respected member of the National Association of Women Lawyers (NAWL). JoAnne’s remarkable contributions to the field of law and her unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing her.
JoAnne A. Epps, a long-time member of NAWL, served as the acting president and professor of law at Temple University. Throughout her illustrious career, she dedicated herself to championing women’s rights and empowering aspiring lawyers. Epps’ tireless efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion within the legal profession made her a trailblazer and an inspiration to many.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, JoAnne A. Epps developed an early passion for law and social justice. After graduating from Temple University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, she went on to earn her Juris Doctor from Yale Law School. Epps’ academic achievements were exceptional, and her commitment to excellence was evident from the very beginning.
Upon completing her legal education, Epps embarked on a career that would shape the lives of countless individuals. She joined the faculty at Temple University’s Beasley School of Law, where she not only excelled as an educator but also paved the way for aspiring women lawyers. Epps served as the dean of Temple Law School from 2008 to 2016 and later assumed the role of acting president, leaving an indelible impact on the institution.
Her passion for women’s rights extended beyond academia. JoAnne A. Epps was actively involved in various organizations dedicated to advancing gender equality. As a member of NAWL, she worked tirelessly to break down barriers and create a more inclusive legal profession.
The news of JoAnne A. Epps’ unexpected passing has left the legal community and her loved ones in shock. As of now, the cause of her death remains unknown, and we can only speculate on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The sudden loss of such an exceptional individual has undoubtedly left a void that will be difficult to fill.
Many colleagues and friends have expressed their grief and shared heartfelt tributes to honor Epps’ memory. Her dedication to the law, her unwavering support for women’s rights, and her mentorship of aspiring lawyers will forever be remembered as her enduring legacy.
In this time of profound sorrow, our thoughts and prayers go out to JoAnne A. Epps’ family, friends, and colleagues. May they find solace in the knowledge that her contributions to the legal profession and her impact on countless lives will never be forgotten.
As we mourn the loss of this luminary, let us also remember the importance of continuing the work she left behind. JoAnne A. Epps’ unwavering commitment to justice and equality serves as a guiding light for future generations, inspiring us all to strive for a more inclusive and equitable society..
We’re heartbroken to share that our community has lost a luminary in the passing of JoAnne A. Epps. JoAnne was a long-time NAWL member and acting president and professor of law at @TempleUniv.https://t.co/ODiCpSMmtd
Photo: Temple University pic.twitter.com/yjX0iyigUV
— National Association of Women Lawyers (@NAWLWomeninLaw) September 20, 2023