Some sad news this morning: Terrell Jones, Penn State’s vice provost for educational equity, passed away this morning. According to the Centre Daily Times, it was a result of cancer.

From the office’s website:

It is with deep sorrow that I’m writing to inform you that our colleague and friend, Dr. Terrell Jones, Vice Provost for Educational Equity passed away this morning.  Terrell had been on medical leave the last few months.  He will be greatly missed across the University not only for the impact of his contributions to Penn State, but also for simply the wonderful person that he was.  We will share with you the details regarding funeral arrangements as they become available.  Please keep Carla and Terrell’s children in your thoughts and prayers.

In Jones’ role, he was primarily responsible for implementing the university’s plan to support diversity. He spoke to SOC 119 classes several times, and was beloved among those who worked with him and knew him. The President of the Pennsylvania Black Conference on Higher Education, Inc., from 2008-10, he taught courses on race relations and cross-cultural counseling at Penn State, and was the diversity consultant for many school districts and private sector organizations.

Our thoughts are with the Jones family during this sad time.