Epps named 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award recipient
Dr. Gregory Epps Sr. has been named the recipient of the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award by the WVU Center for Black Culture for his exceptional contributions to both the academic and broader communities of West Virginia. As a senior advisor and program manager for the WVU Health Sciences Center, Dr. Epps has left a lasting impact on student success, leadership development and community engagement.
His work is focused on creating opportunities for students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to thrive academically and professionally. His efforts are centered on fostering an inclusive environment that promotes engagement, leadership and personal growth. In his role, he collaborates with faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members to build a supportive, encouraging space where students can excel.
Dr. Epps said his work is motivated by a simple but powerful mission: “Whether it be within higher education, organizations, in communities or faith-based settings, or anywhere else, I just want to be able to have a positive impact on people’s lives to the best of my ability. That is my driving force and what I strive to do.” He added, “I am also a big promoter of people not being divided. I think that when we work in unity, we can make a tremendous difference in the lives of others.”
In recent months, Dr. Epps has helped raise more than $35,000 for student scholarships, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed. His mentorship has been invaluable to many and his dedication to enhancing educational experiences continues to inspire those around him.
Dr. Epps is no stranger to higher education. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from West Virginia State University, a master’s degree in public administration and management from Marshall University and a doctorate in education administration (higher education) from WVU, with a minor in public administration. He has also completed advanced leadership programs, including the Business Management Institute at Cornell University, the College of Business Management Institute at the University of Kentucky and the Executive Leadership Program at Hampton University.
Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Dr. Epps has always been passionate about athletics. A member of both the St. Albans High School and West Virginia State University Sports Halls of Fame, he has a strong connection to the athletic community. He also served as both an assistant and head track coach at West Virginia State University, further demonstrating his commitment to guiding and mentoring young people in all aspects of life.
Epps has earned recognition across several fields. He has been named in Who’s Who in the World and Who’s Who in America and is a licensed minister who actively contributes to faith-based initiatives. Epps is also deeply involved in civic leadership. Recently re-elected to the City Council for the Town of Star City, he serves on the Planning Commission and is the immediate past president of the State Rehabilitation Council, an appointment made by the governor.
A member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Epps exemplifies the fraternity’s core values of promoting moral excellence, education and service to humanity. He has held leadership roles at local, national and international levels within the fraternity and has been honored with numerous awards, including Man of the Year and Superior Service.
Dr. Epps received the award at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast on Jan. 18, 2025. He reflected on the significance of the recognition, saying, “It is a great honor to be selected to receive the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Lifetime Achievement Award. There have been some amazing people to have received this award in the past, and it is extremely humbling to be included in that group”.
-WVU-
cm/1/21/25
MEDIA CONTACT: Christie Matyola
Senior Communications Specialist
WVU Health Sciences
732-966-2107; christie.matyola@hsc.wvu.edu