Atlanta Student Graduates Woodward With 4.0 GPA

The local graduate plans to attend Howard University in the fall of 2026 to study criminology.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Secondary Education

Gouache-painted illustration of books and an hourglass, symbolizing academic achievement and the transition to higher education.
Heaven Epps, a recent Woodward Academy graduate in Atlanta, has earned a 4.0 GPA and will attend Howard University in 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should academic achievements receive more recognition within the hip hop community?

Heaven Epps has graduated from Woodward Academy in Atlanta with a 4.0 grade point average. She is set to begin her studies at Howard University in the fall of 2026 as part of the class of 2030.

Why it matters

The achievement marks a significant academic milestone for the local graduate, who plans to pursue a degree in criminology. Her path highlights a family legacy of higher education in criminal justice and related fields.

Epps maintained a 4.0 grade point average over four years of study at Woodward Academy. She attended the institution for 12 years prior to her graduation and acceptance into Howard University.

The players

Heaven Epps

A recent Woodward Academy graduate and incoming Howard University student focused on criminology.

Woodward Academy

A long-standing Atlanta-based private school providing K-12 education.

Howard University

A historically Black research university in Washington, D.C., known for its diverse academic programs.

The details

After completing a 12-year tenure at Woodward Academy, Epps achieved a perfect 4.0 grade point average. She now prepares to transition to Howard University, where she will major in criminology to mirror the academic focus established by her mother's own studies in criminal justice.

Timeline

  1. October 2026: The graduation news was formally shared.

  2. Fall 2026: Heaven Epps begins her college education.

The Home Front

The transition from private high school to a major university is a common milestone for many Atlanta families planning for long-term education costs. It mirrors national trends where students increasingly look toward historically Black institutions for specialized undergraduate programs.

Families with high school students should review their long-term education savings plans and graduation requirements early in the academic cycle. Tracking academic milestones like a 4.0 GPA can also help in navigating the competitive landscape of university admissions.

The takeaway

Academic consistency over a 12-year period remains the primary driver for college admission success. Students and parents should maintain a comprehensive record of cumulative GPAs throughout high school to ensure they remain on track for their university goals.

Further reading

For more on local academic milestones, visit our Secondary Education page.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Rolling Out.

Live Poll

Should academic achievements receive more recognition within the hip hop community?