Dear Members of the Temple Community, 

We are all devastated by the sudden passing of Temple University Acting President JoAnne Epps. She was an extraordinary leader, teacher and friend to all. Her commitment to this institution was unwavering, and we will continue to honor her memory. Plans for a memorial service in the near future are forthcoming. Meanwhile, we would like to invite the entire university community to join us at the Bell Tower at noon tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 20, for a special vigil in President Epps’ honor. This will be a time to reflect, remember and support one another during this time of grieving. 

President Epps’ loss will be felt by all of us, and it will no doubt affect each of us in different ways. Temple will provide support to faculty, staff and students to help in dealing with this tragedy: 

-- Faculty and staff members can take advantage of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), through TELUS, available to all Temple University employees and families. The EAP platform can be accessed through TUportal  Home> TUApplications section > LifeWorks Employee Assistance Program or 24/7 via phone at 1(888) 267-8126. In addition, arrangements are being made for on-campus counseling services. The Human Resources Department will provide more information as it becomes available. For any questions regarding the EAP, please contact Benefits at 215-926-2270 or benefits@temple.edu.  

-- Students can access support through Tuttleman Counseling Services, located at 1700 North Broad Street, 2nd floor or by registering for services online at counseling.temple.edu or by calling 215-204-7276.  

There is no doubt this is a significant loss, but Temple University is a special and resilient community. We will rally together to continue the university’s mission and move Temple forward, just as our remarkable friend and colleague President Epps inspires us to do. 

Sincerely, 

Ken Kaiser 
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer 

Gregory N. Mandel 
Senior Vice President and Provost