JACKSON, MS- Juan Joseph, a graduate of Millsaps College and a standout quarterback on the Majors' football team, died early Sunday morning in Baton Rouge, La. Joseph was shot and killed after an encounter with an unidentified individual.

Millsaps College President Robert W. Pearigen said Joseph had a lasting impact on the Millsaps community.

"As a student and as an athlete, Juan commanded our respect and admiration,"Pearigen said. "In everything he took on, he focused on doing it to the best of his ability. This is a sad day for us all, and our thoughts and prayers go out to Juan's family."

Aaron Pelch, head coach of the Millsaps football team, spoke of his experience coaching Joseph.

"Juan was one of the best players I've ever seen wear a Millsaps uniform, and he played one of the biggest roles in our program's resurgence," said Coach Pelch. "His legacy as a football player should not overshadow his dedication as a coach and mentor of young men, and that of a father and devoted husband. I'm shocked and saddened by his passing, as are all the Major coaches and players who worked with him during his time at Millsaps."

Joseph played on the Millsaps football team from 2005-­‐2008, during which time he earned widespread accolades, including recognition as a three-­‐time Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Offensive Player of the Year.

In 2008, Joseph won the Conerly Trophy as the best football player in the state of Mississippi. He is the only Millsaps player to have achieved this honor, and the only player from a Division III school to win the trophy.

Joseph still holds several Millsaps' passing records including the record for career passing yards, 9,295 and passing touchdowns at 87. He also holds the single-game record of six touchdown passes as well as passing yards in a season: 3,463 and touchdowns in a season: 32. He also holds the Millsaps and SCAC record of 149 straight completions and his 9,832 yards of total offense also stand as a school and conference record. 

Joseph earned his degree in business in May 2009, and an M.B.A. from the Else School of Management at Millsaps in 2011. Following graduation, Joseph went on to play in the Canadian Football League. He was working in Baton Rouge as a quarterbacks coach for his high school alma mater, West St. John High School.