Temple University acting president dies during memorial service

Temple University acting President JoAnne A. Epps was pronounced dead on Tuesday after collapsing during a memorial service.

Epps collapsed during a memorial for historian Charles L. Blockson, NBC Philadelphia reported, citing a spokesperson for the university.

"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. She spent nearly 40 years of her life serving this university, and it goes without saying her loss will reverberate through the community for years to come," said chairman of the board Mitchell Morgan, according to the Associated Press.

Epps, 72, was swiftly brought to Temple University Hospital, but was pronounced dead at 3:15 p.m. No cause of death has been identified as of press time.

She assumed the role of acting president in April of this year.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.