Joanne A. Epps, acting president of Temple University in Philadelphia, who took the position during a tumultuous time for the school, died Tuesday after falling ill on stage at a memorial service, the university announced.
Mr. Epps was appointed as AprilAccording to the university, he became ill during the memorial service and was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead at around 3:15 p.m. stated in a statement.
“There are no words that can describe the gravity and sadness of this loss,” the university said in a letter signed by its president, chief operating officer and provost. “President Epps was a devoted servant and friend who represented the best of Temple.”
The university has not disclosed the cause of death. Epps was 72 years old, according to . philadelphia inquirer.
Epps was appointed acting president of Temple University following the resignation of former president Jason Wingard. Wingard’s tenure was marred by worsening crime around campus, strikes by graduate students, and a loss of confidence in his leadership among some faculty members.
Ms. Epps has been a member of Temple University’s faculty for more than 30 years. Prior to joining Temple, she served as an assistant U.S. attorney in Philadelphia and an assistant city attorney in Los Angeles.
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