Epps Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Sponsored by Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Overview
The Epps Scholarship Fund supports Missouri high‑school seniors who plan to attend a four‑year college and then continue on to an accredited law school. It was created by attorneys Willie and Mischa Epps through the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation to honor Dr. Willie James Epps, Sr. and Dr. Barbara Bacon Epps — two educators who grew up in rural, segregated Mississippi, became the first in their families to go to college, earned Ph.D.s in education, and taught across the country. The Epps family believes, and models, that faith and education open doors; Willie and Mischa also work with churches to spread word of this scholarship opportunity.

Who is eligible
- Graduating high‑school seniors who reside in Missouri.
- Students who intend to enroll in a four‑year college or university and then attend an accredited law school.
- Previous Epps Scholarship recipients are not eligible to reapply.

Selection criteria
Scholarship decisions are based on:
- Academic achievement
- Financial need
- Demonstrated interest in pursuing a legal education
- Community service and leadership

How to apply
Submit the scholarship application form provided by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation. Be sure your application addresses the selection criteria and includes any required documentation.

Award details and conditions
- Awards are made annually.
- Each scholarship will be at least $2,000 per year, paid in two equal installments (August and January).
- Students must remain enrolled in classes and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA (or equivalent) to receive the second installment.
- This scholarship is not renewable; it is intended for high‑school seniors planning a college‑to‑law‑school path.

Supplemental essay prompts
You will be asked to respond to the following prompts. Think clearly and use specific examples.

1. Describe examples of your leadership experience and how you have significantly influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time. Include responsibilities you have taken for initiatives in or out of school.
2. Describe how attorneys have positively impacted our community, state, or nation. You may write about a group of attorneys or a single attorney.
3. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you took to address it. If you turned to anyone for help, explain their role and what you learned about yourself.

A quick tip from a teacher: answer the prompts with concrete examples, focus on outcomes and what you learned, and make sure your writing is clear and well organized. Good luck — and read the application instructions carefully before submitting.