The entire Temple University community is mourning the loss of President JoAnne A. Epps, who passed away on Sept. 19, 2023. President Epps stepped into the role of acting president in April 2023. She spent nearly 40 years of her life serving students, faculty, staff and alumni at the university, and her loss will reverberate through the community for years to come.
Read about her life and legacy in this special edition of Temple Now.
The Beasley School of Law shared more about how President Epps transformed Temple. Visit the school’s site to leave a memory or comment for her family, colleagues and friends, and see a conversation between Dean Rachel Rebouché and President Epps from June 2023.
A recording of the Celebration of Life livestream for President JoAnne A. Epps can be viewed below.
An American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation of the Celebration of Life livestream is also available. The ASL livestream only includes the recorded video of an ASL interpreter and does not include captions.
ASL Interpretation: ASL Livestream
President Epps led the university with compassion and care for all students, faculty, staff and alumni. Upon being named acting president, she remarked, “It is an honor and privilege to serve as acting president of this institution that I love so much, that has been such an important part of my life, and always will be.”
She envisioned a path toward positive transformation, and believed strongly that together, we could make a difference. More than anything, she believed in Temple, our mission and our students. She could often be seen actively engaging with students on campus, and she knew that each of them had the potential to change the world. Her profound contributions and commitment will continue to guide and inspire us.
A celebrated member of the Temple community, President Epps previously served as provost and dean of the Beasley School of Law. She was a fierce advocate for educational access and affordability, and she was integral in leading the university through times of significant change. Prior to joining Temple, President Epps’ leadership and influence positively impacted many, including her longtime support of minorities and women.
President Epps served as a model of leadership and mentorship, with an unwavering belief that education is a powerful catalyst for positive social change. Her impact changed lives. To honor her, two scholarship funds have been established to provide financial assistance to Temple students who embody her spirit of pursuing accomplishment for the greater good.
All were invited to join us at the Bell Tower at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 20, for a special vigil in President Epps’ honor. It was a time to reflect, remember and support one another during this time of grieving. You can watch a recording of the vigil.
