MS HC143

Commends Commissioner Christopher B. Epps for his dedicated and outstanding service to the Mississippi Department of Corrections and recognition as the longest-serving commissioner in the department's history.

Recognizes Epps' election as the 102nd President of the American Correctional Association (ACA) and his leadership in heading the ACA's publishing operations including Corrections Today magazine and over 300 other ACA publications.

Acknowledges Epps' 29-year career in corrections beginning in 1982, his appointment as commissioner in 2002 by Governor Ronnie Musgrove and reappointment in 2004 by Governor Haley Barbour, plus his educational credentials including a bachelor's degree from Mississippi Valley State University and master's degree from Liberty University.

Recognizes Epps' 24 years of service in the Mississippi Army National Guard with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and his involvement in multiple professional boards, committees, and correctional associations including ASCA and the Southern States Correctional Association.

Notes Mississippi Department of Corrections received the ACA Eagle Award on August 11, 2008, becoming the 14th state recipient under Epps' leadership.