Dear Methodist University Colleagues & Friends,
With a heavy heart, I share the news that Kimberly Vess, Ed.D., a founding faculty member and leader of the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, after a valiant battle with a long-standing illness.
We extend our deepest condolences to Kim’s family and to everyone that she touched with her passion for building a school of medicine that would fulfill our mission, serve our students, and truly meet the needs of our community. Kim founded and led our school of medicine Community Engagement Council, and she personally inspired hundreds throughout our region to join our efforts to reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes.
A celebration of Kim’s life will be held in Fayetteville in June, with details to follow. In honor of her extraordinary devotion to students, service, and community, a special dedication will be made in her memory at the new School of Medicine building later this year.
Sincerely,
Executive Vice President and Provost