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