The Indie Soul Student of the Week is usually reserved for students in grade school but this week we have made an exception. Christina Epps is an outstanding student-athlete at Coppin State University who recently won a prestigious national award for her excellence on and off the field.
Last week, Epps received the MEAC Woman of the Year Award from conference commissioner Dennis E. Thomas during the annual Fanny Jackson Coppin Convocation in the James Weldon Johnson Auditorium.
“I am elated, filled with joy and honor,” Epps said. “Coming to Coppin State was one of the best decisions I ever made. I went through some pain and it made my passion for track and field stronger, and now I feel like it’s my purpose to go to the 2016 Olympics and inspire others.”
When Epps stepped to the podium, she was overcome with emotion as she shed tears of joy while thanking Coppin State faculty, administrators and coaches.
Epps was a four-time All-MEAC student-athlete in track and field and is a six-time triple jump champion in the conference. She is the current Coppin State triple jump record holder. Her school standard is 13.40 meters (43 feet, 11.75 inches), which was established by finishing third overall at the NCAA Division I East Regional Outdoor Preliminary Championships.
Epps was selected as the Coppin State Female Presidents’ Eagle Award Winner, Female Athlete of the Year and MVP in track and field this past season. She served as team captain from 2012-2014 and was the SAAC president from 2013-2014.
Each week during the school year, Indie Soul will spotlight a student who excels in academics and in the community. To nominate someone for “Student of the Week,” call 410-366-3900 ext. 3016 or email pdemps@btimes.com with “Student of the Week” in the subject line.