Temple University announced the sudden passing of acting President, JoAnne A. Epps. She suddenly passed away this afternoon while attending the Charles L. Blockson Memorial Service at the Temple Performing Arts Center when she became ill.
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Epps, who was scheduled to speak at the service, slumped in her chair shortly after the event began and was carried out in the arms of a uniformed officer after the announcer asked if there was a doctor in the house.
She was rushed to Temple University Hospital when she passed away just after 3 pm. The cause of her sudden death was not immediately shared by school officials.
The event was being live-streamed on the university's website.
The following was shared on the Temple University website:
Members of the Temple Community, It is with deep heartbreak that we write to inform you that Temple University Acting President JoAnne A. Epps suddenly passed away this afternoon. There are no words that can describe the gravity and sadness of this loss. President Epps was a devoted servant and friend who represented the best parts of Temple.
"JoAnne Epps was a powerful force and constant ambassador for Temple University for nearly four decades. Losing her is heartbreaking for Philadelphia," Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Lori and I are holding JoAnne’s loved ones in our hearts right now. May her memory be a blessing."
Epps was 72 years of age.
Photo credit: Temple University
Comentários