In Memory of Regent Paul L. Vance
Adelphi, Md. (May 5, 2015) -- The University System of Maryland
(USM) community mourns the passing of Regent Paul L. Vance, Ed.D., a member of
the board since July 2010. He died May 2 after a long illness.
In a
distinguished 30-year career in education, Dr. Vance headed two major school
districts. In 1991, he became the first African-American to lead the Montgomery
County (Md.) Public School System as its Superintendent of Schools. He served
as the Superintendent of Schools for the District of Columbia Public School
System from 2003 to 2006.
His 20 years
of service to the Montgomery County Public School System followed significant
contributions to education as deputy superintendent for Baltimore City Public
Schools and, from 1968 to 1972, as principal of the Clarence E. Pickett Middle
School in Philadelphia.
"Paul Vance
was a remarkable person. His passion for quality education, especially for
low-income and under-represented minorities, made a difference in the lives of
countless people," said USM Chancellor William E. "Brit" Kirwan. "And his
leadership, based on integrity, humility, and compassion, made him a role model
for so many of us. We will always be grateful for his wise counsel as a member
of the Board of Regents."
Dr. Vance
was a 1952 graduate of Cheyney University, a historically black institution in
Pennsylvania. He received his master's degree (1960) and doctor of education
(1974) from the University of Pennsylvania.
"I join
Chancellor Kirwan in expressing great appreciation for Paul Vance's
contributions to the University System of Maryland," said James L. Shea, chair
of the Board of Regents. "On behalf of the board, I offer my deep sympathies to
his family and the appreciation of my colleagues for his professionalism and
dedication to improving lives through education."
Dr. Vance is
survived by his wife of 42 years, the former Sandra Redmond, three children,
and four grandchildren.
Contact: Mike Lurie
Phone: 301.445.2719
Email: mlurie@usmd.edu
