Anna Epps facts for kids

Dr. Anna Cherrie Epps (born July 8, 1930 – died May 18, 2017) was an American microbiologist. She was well-known for her research on how our bodies fight off sickness (called immunology). She also worked hard to help more minority students succeed in science, especially in medicine.

Early Life and Education

Anna Cherrie Epps was born in New Orleans in 1930. Her father was a doctor, and her mother was a teacher. She went to Catholic schools in New Orleans.

When she was just 16, Anna started studying at Howard University. She earned her bachelor's degree in zoology at 19. Anna wanted to become a doctor, but she was told she was too young and female to get into medical school.

Even so, she continued her education. She earned her master's degree in microbiology from Loyola University in 1959. Later, in 1966, she received her doctoral degree in zoology from Howard University.

Important Research Work

Dr. Epps' early research at Howard University focused on immunology. She studied how our bodies fight against tropical and infectious diseases.

At Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, her research looked into how immunology relates to liver disease and stomach cancer. This important work earned her a special research award.

In 1993, Dr. Epps was asked to write a major report. It was about how to get more minority students into health professions. She also helped write a book called "An Act of Grade: The Right Side of History." This book shared the long history of Meharry Medical College.

Her Career Journey

Dr. Epps started her career in 1953, working in hospital labs. From 1954 to 1961, she taught and led the medical technology department at Xavier University.

In 1961, she became an assistant professor at Howard University. She also began her doctoral research there. In 1969, she moved to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine as an assistant professor.

Later, at Tulane University, Dr. Epps created a special summer program called MEdREP. This program helped minority students who wanted to become doctors. It gave them a chance to learn about medicine and become better candidates for medical school. In 1975, she became the Director of Medicine at Tulane Medical Center.

Dr. Epps made history in 1997. She became the first female dean of the School of Medicine at Meharry Medical College. At that time, she was also the only African-American woman with a Ph.D. to be a dean of a U.S. medical school. In 2013, at 83 years old, she became the president and CEO of Meharry Medical College. This made her possibly the first African-American woman with a Ph.D. to lead a medical school.

Helping Others: Boards and Committees

Dr. Epps was part of many important groups and committees. These roles showed her strong dedication to making medical sciences better for minority groups.

She was a member of the Minority Health Advisory Committee for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). She also served on the National Board of Medical Examiners.

Awards and Special Honors

Dr. Epps received several awards for her excellent work. She earned research fellowships in 1966 and 1969 for her studies at Johns Hopkins and Tulane Universities.

In 2008, a special fund was created in her honor at Tulane School of Medicine. It's called The Anna C. Epps, PhD - Morris A. Spirtes, MD Fund. This fund helps students who need financial support and is one of the largest gifts ever given to the school.

In 2007, Meharry Medical College opened The Anna Cherrie Epps, Ph.D., Center for Educational Development and Support (CEDS). This center was named after Dr. Epps to honor her efforts to improve teaching and learning in medicine.

Personal Life

Dr. Anna Cherrie Epps was married to Dr. Joseph M. Epps.