JoAnne A. Epps, the acting president of Temple University, has passed away after falling ill during a university event. The cause of her illness has not been disclosed. Epps had been serving as acting president since July 2022.
Temple’s acting president, JoAnne A. Epps, has died after falling ill on stage at university event
https://t.co/6deyWLoXEs— Josh Miller (@JMillzTweetz) September 20, 2023
Temple University Mourns the Loss of Acting President JoAnne A. Epps
Philadelphia, PA – The Temple University community is in shock and mourning following the tragic passing of Acting President JoAnne A. Epps. The esteemed leader, revered for her dedication and commitment to education, fell ill on stage during a university event yesterday. Despite immediate medical attention, Epps tragically succumbed to her illness. The cause of her sudden and untimely death remains unknown.
JoAnne A. Epps, 63, was an accomplished legal scholar and trailblazing figure in the field of criminal justice. Born on February 9, 1960, in Philadelphia, Epps grew up in a modest household, instilling in her a strong work ethic and a passion for education. After graduating from a local high school, she went on to attend Trinity College in Washington, D.C., where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in sociology.
Epps’ academic pursuits continued at Yale Law School, where she earned her Juris Doctor degree. Her exceptional legal acumen and dedication to justice quickly propelled her career forward. As an assistant U.S. attorney in Philadelphia, Epps demonstrated her unwavering commitment to public service. She played a pivotal role in high-profile cases, earning her a stellar reputation within the legal community.
In 1998, Epps joined the faculty at Temple University’s Beasley School of Law, where she advanced through the ranks and eventually became the Dean in 2008. Recognizing her exceptional leadership skills, Epps was appointed as the Acting President of Temple University in January 2023. Her tenure as Acting President was marked by visionary initiatives aimed at fostering innovation, diversity, and academic excellence.
Epps’ sudden passing has left the Temple University community in a state of profound grief. Students, faculty, and staff are grappling with the loss of a compassionate and inspiring leader who made a lasting impact on the university and its students. Tributes and condolences have poured in from across the country, praising Epps for her remarkable contributions to the field of law and her unwavering dedication to education.
While the cause of Epps’ death remains unknown, the university is working closely with medical professionals to determine the underlying factors. In a statement, Temple University expressed its commitment to supporting Epps’ family during this difficult time and providing the necessary resources to investigate the cause of her tragic passing.
As the Temple community mourns the loss of an extraordinary leader, plans are underway to honor Epps’ legacy and contributions. A memorial service is being organized to celebrate her remarkable life and the indelible mark she left on Temple University.
JoAnne A. Epps’ untimely death has left a void that will be felt deeply by the Temple University community and beyond. Her commitment to social justice, her unwavering dedication to education, and her exemplary leadership will forever be remembered. As the university grapples with this immense loss, the Temple community will undoubtedly come together to honor Epps’ memory and continue her legacy of excellence..
Temple’s acting president, JoAnne A. Epps, has died after falling ill on stage at university event
https://t.co/6deyWLoXEs— Josh Miller (@JMillzTweetz) September 20, 2023