The University of Montevallo community is mourning the death of Dr. Jim Connell.

Dr. Connell’s death was “sudden,” according to an email sent from the President’s Office Monday afternoon. No cause of death was mentioned in the email.

He joined the UM faculty in 2004, rising to the rank of associate professor of finance in the Stephens College of Business.

In addition to being an educator, Dr. Connell was also a certified public accountant and held a certification as a Chartered Global Management Accountant.

Prior to joining the faculty at UM, Dr. Connell taught at Shorter University and Mercer University.

“He will be remembered by faculty, staff, students and alumni for his quick wit and dry sense of humor,” Dr. Stewart wrote in the email. “He remained in contact with many alumni, offering wise counsel well beyond the classroom.”

This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as they become available.