JoAnne A. Epps Dies After Collapsing On Stage

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JoAnne Epps Temple University acting president death funeral memorial service

Source: Courtesy of / Temple University

Temple University’s acting president, JoAnne A. Epps, tragically passed away on Tuesday during a memorial service after falling ill on stage. Officials expressed deep sorrow and struggled with emotions as they remembered her nearly four decades of dedicated service.

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Epps had been attending a memorial service at the university for Charles L. Blockson, a curator of African-American artifacts, when she experienced a sudden medical episode. She was swiftly taken to Temple University Hospital but was pronounced dead around 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday at the age of 72.

Ken Kaiser, senior vice president and chief operating officer at Temple, refrained from speculating about Epps’ health before her collapse but described her passing as a profound shock. He stated, “We are not aware of any pre-existing health issues President Epps had.”

Also See: Breaking Barriers: Dr. Jason Wingard To Become Temple University’s First Black President

Kaiser also fondly recalled his three-decade-long friendship with Epps, highlighting her vibrant personality, compassion, and ability to unite people even in challenging situations.

Temple University Provost Gregory Mandel became emotional while speaking about Epps, emphasizing the deep sense of loss within the university community.

Mandel announced that the university’s Board of Trustees would convene on Wednesday to devise a plan for the transition following Epps’ untimely departure. Epps had assumed the role of acting president in April after the resignation of Jason Wingard, the university’s first Black president, who had led the institution since July 2021.

source: The DMV Daily

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