EXCELLENCE IN ACTION: State of Grambling 2024 by Grambling State University

EXCELLENCE IN ACTION

Annual Report

EXCELLENCE IN ACTION

Annual Report

Brandon A. Logan Vice President University Advancement and Innovation

▪ 41% INCREASE IN NUMBER OF INVESTMENTS

▪ 40% INCREASE IN POSITIVE MENTIONS

▪ 19 NEW ENDOWMENTS ESTABLISHED

INCREASE IN TOTAL INVESTORS 222%

$253,577 IN SCHOLARSHIP DOLLARS AWARDED 192%

INCREASE IN NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

2023-2024

▪ 151% INCREASE IN NUMBER OF STUDENTS WITH INTERNSHIPS

▪ 112% INCREASE IN NUMBER OF PROGRAMS HOSTED BY CCPD (CENTER FOR CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT)

1,006 CLOTHING ITEMS DONATED TO CAREER CLOSET

23% INCREASE IN NUMBER OF SOCIAL

INCREASE IN INVESTOR RETENTION INCREASE IN ALUMNI GIVING 89% 41%

400 S tudents COMPLETED THE GALLUP® STRENGTHFINDERS ASSESSMENT

152 CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS 114% INCREASE IN NEW NON-ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS

ear Grambling State University Family, Friends, and Partners,

As I reflect on my first year as President, I am filled with immense pride for all we have accomplished together. It is with great honor that I present to you Grambling State University’s 2024 Annual Report, themed “Excellence in Action.” This year has been a powerful testament to the enduring spirit, dedication, and resilience of our community as we strive for excellence in every endeavor.

One moment that truly encapsulates this theme was the groundbreaking for the new Student Success Center—a testament to Grambling State's investment in creating a built environment that enhances the student experience while improving operational efficiency. Designed to be a central hub, this facility will streamline services and provide students with access to vital resources and support.

This year, Grambling State has seen remarkable progress across every area of our institution. Our faculty secured approximately $9.8 million in research grants, driving innovation and discovery. Our student-athletes proudly brought home five SWAC championships—three in regular season play and two in post-season competitions—continuing our legacy of athletic excellence. Additionally, our STEM programs have grown by 30%, positioning our students to lead in fields critical to the future. These accomplishments represent only a fraction of the transformative work happening every day across our campus.

As we look ahead, we remain laser-focused on an ambitious vision for the future. Our plans include the expansion of global partnerships and continued efforts to create an environment where every student thrives. At Grambling State, excellence is who we are, and it’s what we strive to achieve each day.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. To our alumni and partners, your unwavering support has paved the way for countless new opportunities. To our students, faculty, and staff—you are the very heart of this university, and it is through your passion and dedication that our mission comes to life.

As we celebrate the remarkable strides of the past year, I invite each of you to remain engaged in the exciting journey ahead. Whether it’s mentoring a student, supporting our scholarship programs, or attending one of our many events, your involvement will continue to propel Grambling State University forward with “Excellence in Action.”

Thank you for your commitment and belief in our shared mission. I am confident that the best is yet to come.

With gratitude and in service,

Martin Lemelle, Jr., D.B.A. President

INAUGURAL COHORT BEGINS STUDIES IN NEW PH.D. PROGRAM AT GRAMBLING STATE

Nine doctoral students attended orientation August 14, 2023 as the inaugural cohort for the new Ph.D. program in Criminology and Justice Administration at Grambling State University. Held in Grambling Hall auditorium, this is the first Ph.D. program ever offered by the institution.

“Welcome to our inaugural cohort for this new program,” said Grambling State President Rick Gallot as he was introduced. “As a group of us were in Baton Rouge fighting to get the program established and underway, I couldn’t see your exact faces, but I could see you in the concept that you would be here on campus as we welcome you to this program”.

“This really means a lot, not just because it’s our first and only Ph.D. program, but when you think about the work we’ve done for many, many, many years in our Criminal Justice Department, on the undergraduate level and the master’s level, and now being able to expand this now to the doctoral level at this time is really important because the work and research that you all will do will actually impact people’s lives.”

Gallot told the group that as Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards is preparing to leave office after completing his second term as governor, one of his plans is to attempt to clear out and reduce the number of the state’s death row inmates.

“That’s going to be an incredible area to research, with what has happened with death row and how Angola (the state’s primary penitentiary) has been transformed during Gov. Edwards’ administration,” Gallot said. “Obviously there’s the whole George Floyd effect and how that we’ve seen happen in our country.”

Gallot said that as a student currently working on a dissertation himself, he knows the challenge ahead for them.

“I know that you all will have things you’re trying to juggle and work through, but just keep persisting,” Gallot said. “As Dr. O’Rourke from our system office always tells me, just keep swimming. Be tough — there’ll be challenges, but just keep swimming one class at a time, one day at a time and you’ll get there.”

“Thanks to all of you for entrusting us with this journey you are taking here at Grambling State University. We certainly want to be here to be supportive, to challenge you, and to also see all the amazing work you’re going to do. So, on behalf of everyone I say thank you, welcome, and I look forward to all of you being part of this initial cohort of our first and only PhD program.”

Members of the inaugural class include: Alexus Angram, Mackisha Brumant, Constance Hester, Euckle Hunter, Willie Jefferson, Andra Richards, Shurunda Thrower, Jacqueline Winston, and Pearl Wise.

GSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Connie Walton told the group that she knows they will do great things under the leadership of Dr. Tazinski Lee, head of the Criminal Justice Department, Graduate Coordinator Dr. Karletta White-Langhorn, and their team of faculty members.

“Just remember, you’re going to set the bar high for the cohorts that come behind you,” Walton said. “I know you all are going to do great things under the leadership of Dr. Lee and the faculty – they plan to build a great program – one that is both rigorous and very rewarding.”

“You’re going to, as President Gallot told you, make an impact and make our world better. So, I’m going to put on my calendar four years from now looking for you (as Ph.D. graduates). Some of you may do it in less than four years. When you walk across the stage and we’re able to confer the first Ph.D. on a student, you will finally reach the prize — become a Doctor of Philosophy and more importantly, leaders. I’m looking forward to that day.”

Dr. Carolyn Hester, dean of GSU’s College of Professional Studies, said she had to come up with a new kind of speech to talk to this historical cohort.

“I’m used to talking to undergraduates,” Hester said. “But when you have people who can actually work in the field and who have put forth that effort — you come with different skill sets, but you also come with a certain type of passion. And I say that because I went through it while working on my Ph.D. at an age older than I originally wanted to do it.

“But there was something different about my idea, my desire— and that desire is so very different and so strong, but it’s at a place where you really don’t see it. You just kind of feel it as you go along. I tell undergraduates that the most demanding degree they’ll ever get is an undergraduate degree, and the least demanding is a Ph.D. Why? Because it’s what you want, what you do, and what you’re interested in. My wish for you is that you keep this initial passion and initial zeal. It’s because of those that you will make it and earn this degree.”

LONGTIME FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN JOEL L. FLETCHER, JR., RALPH W. E. JONES SR. INSPIRES

POSTHUMOUS $100K ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

ENDOWMENT TO BENEFIT STUDENTS

ENROLLED

IN THE CALL ME MISTER PROGRAM

Longtime friendships often lead to long-lasting effects and impacts, sometimes even after those friends are deceased.

That was the case in the friendship of former University of Louisiana at Lafayette President Joel L. Fletcher and former Grambling State University (GSU) President Ralph Waldo Emerson Jones who first met in the late 1940s to early 1950s.

And that friendship is now being commemorated and honored by an impactful $100,000 scholarship endowment Fletcher’s grandson Paul Nevels established to be presented to a GSU student enrolled in the College of Education’s Call Me MiSTER program.

The Call Me MISTER (Mentors Instructing Students Toward Effective Role Models) program’s mission is to increase the pool of available male teachers from a broader more diverse background, particularly among the state’s lowest-performing elementary schools. Student participants are largely selected from among under-served, socio-economically disadvantaged, and educationally at-risk communities.

“I think an important thing about both my grandfather and Dr. Jones is that individual success wasn’t really a big thing for either of them,” Nevels said. “They were both more interested in the success of opening doors to help others achieve success. And that just really comes back many times more helping others achieve success in their lives than it did in the awards and honors both my grandfather and Dr. Jones achieved over the years.”

“And I really think my grandfather would really like the choice of helping Grambling’s Call Me MiSTER program. That was the kind of cause he believed in all the way back to the Great Depression, when he developed a work study program for kids who didn’t stand a chance of going to college otherwise. He got them work on a dairy farm and then the National Youth Administration developed under President (Franklin D.) Roosevelt’s administration found out about it and implemented it for the first time on a nationwide basis.”

Fletcher, who was born in Natchitoches and raised in Ruston, went to Lafayette in 1920 to teach and later lead Southwestern Louisiana Institute’s agriculture program and, for 25 years starting in 1941, to serve as the university’s president.

Jones, the grandson of a slave but the son of a college administrator, was born in Lake Charles and worked his way north by way of Southern University for his education and Grambling for his life’s work.

In 1926, when Jones arrived in Grambling, the school had 120 students and was called Louisiana Negro Normal and Industrial Institute. He taught chemistry, physics, and math and was the registrar and dean of men before he rose to president.

Jones served as Grambling State’s president for 41 years, starting in 1936, while also coaching baseball and beginning the university’s band program.

A paper that Fletcher developed in the early 1950s and now resides in the UL-Lafayette archives is titled “Some of the Needs in Negro Education in Louisiana,” and promoted greater investment in historically black colleges.

Files in the UL-Lafayette archives reflect Fletcher’s personal efforts in collecting data and information about Southern black high schools and black college campuses as far away as Virginia, indicating that he was invited to speak on the topic in early 1951 to the Rotary Club in Lake Charles, and that his research after that time showed his continuing interest in the topic.

In his 24-page paper, Fletcher made numerous mentions of Grambling, its successes in supporting public education in communities around the college, and its specific needs that were not being met by state funding. Those needs included better facilities, clinics to develop communication skills, trained librarians, greater opportunities for professional growth for teachers, workshops for principals, and more generous sabbatical leave.

At the bottom of a typewritten letter from Jones to Fletcher dated Oct. 9, 1950, letter to Fletcher, Jones added a handwritten message — “You are one of the best friends that I have.”

More than 80 years later, the impact of that friendship is still being felt at GSU.

10 GRAMBLING STATE STUDENTS

NAMED AMONG BEYGOOD FOUNDATION RENAISSANCE SCHOLARS

"After I obtain my bachelor’s degree at Grambling State University, I plan to further my education and enroll in law school to become a criminal defense attorney."

Sha’Cyla Allen, Forrest City, Arkansas

Ten Grambling State University students were announced as recipients of $10,000 scholarships from the BeyGood Foundation, founded by famous artist Beyoncé Knowles-Carter.

The singer, songwriter, and businesswoman best known by her first name — Beyoncé — is currently in the midst of her “Renaissance tour” and announced earlier this summer that she had committed to donating $1 million to higher education efforts through her BeyGood foundation’s Renaissance Scholars program.

That program presented 100 students from 10 different schools with a $10,000 scholarship.

GRAMBLING UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION LAUNCHES $1M ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIP CAMPAIGN IN MEMORY OF WILLIS REED TO BENEFIT STUDENT-ATHLETES

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Willis Reed, a Grambling State University graduate, and Grambling Sports Legends Hall of Famer, was always a champion for his alma mater, praising the time he spent at the college and the education it provided him.

After leading was what then known as Grambling College to its only men’s basketball national championship ever — a 1961 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics title over Georgetown of Kentucky — Reed went on to become a standout for the NBA’s Knicks, becoming a seven-time NBA All-Star while leading New York to league championships in 1970 and 1973.

During his playing career, and later as a college head coach (Creighton University) as well as head coach of the NBA’s New Jersey Nets, where he later served as vice president of

basketball and business development, and as vice president of basketball operations for the New Orleans Hornets, Reed continued offering his support to GSU at every opportunity.

On September 1st, the late Reed, who passed away on March 31 of this year, once again served as a champion for his alma mater as the establishment of a $1 million endowed scholarship to benefit student-athletes was launched at the Liberty Room of the Liberty House in Jersey City, New Jersey. The event was part of pre-game festivities for the Brick City Classic that pitted the GSU Tigers against Hampton at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey.

GSU Grambling State President Rick Gallot and Executive Director of the Grambling University Foundation Brandon Logan were on hand for the celebration, as was Reed’s widow Gale Kennedy Reed and Grambling University Foundation Board Member Dr. David Jefferson, Sr., who served as emcee for the celebration.

U.S. Sen. Bill Bradley, who served three terms as a Democratic U.S. senator from New Jersey from 1979 to 1997 and ran for the Democratic Party’s nomination for president in the 2000 election, losing to Vice President Al Gore, was a teammate of Reed’s on those early 1970s Knicks teams and was on hand Friday for the celebration recognizing the scholarship honoring his former teammate.

“He was the soul of the team in the very real sense of the word,” Bradley said of Reed’s role on those championship Knicks teams. “And you know, there’s a great difference between a star and a champion. New York’s had a lot of stars. But only a few have been champions.”

“We weren’t the best players in the league, but we were the best team. And for a few years, we were the best team in the world. We exemplified selflessness, discipline, and imagination. I remember the fifth game of the 1970s Finals against the Lakers. Willis goes down with a torn abductor muscle. He was our star, our center, our ‘Captain’ (as his Knicks teammates referred to Reed), and our leader. He displayed all of our values and was a big chunk of the team.”

While Reed didn’t return to the floor for the second half of the 1970 Game 5 Finals contest, his Knicks teammates continued playing with that championship spirit Reed first learned as a Grambling student-athlete.

The annual Clayton A. Wiley Engineering High School Day, hosted by Grambling State University’s Department of Engineering Technology, brought 106 students to campus for hands-on challenges in Bridge Building, Drone Flying, Computer Technology, Electrical Circuits, and Mechanical Puzzles—an inspiring opportunity to spark interest in engineering and connect future Tigers with the field.

ENGINEERING DAY BRINGS

APPLICATION OF TECH TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

GRAMBLING STATE STUDENT TAKES MEDICAL GROUP ABROAD FOR OUTREACH PROGRAM

Eight Grambling State University (GSU) students spent a couple of weeks in Cusco, Peru, last summer for an internship program serving more than 150 residents of that nation with a medical outreach program.

Last year, Grambling State senior biology major Andreanna Wright from Madison, Wisconsin, was assigned the role of Team Leader for the VAW Global Health Alliances Medical Chapter at GSU and through that organization set up the GSU internship program.

VAW Global Health Alliances (VAW Global) is a global health and development organization committed to cultivating sustainable and equitable partnerships with local communities and professionals through support and capacity-building for essential and accessible health services.

From June 27 – July 11, Wright and a team of seven other GSU students — a combination of biology majors and nursing majors — traveled to Peru and set up for the medical internship outreach program in which they took vitals, blood pressure, glucose, hemoglobin (for children), height, and weight of all of our patients.

Joining Wright as the students who participated in the internship were Essence Bivens, Jakyla Crump, Jazmin Scott, Kaiden Drain, Micaiah Barnes, Moneesha Gray, and Paige Stanford.

Upon arrival in Peru, the group underwent a quick orientation period set up by VAW before beginning their internship work.

“A couple of us actually arrived a day later than we were supposed to because there was a huge cancellation of flights the first day we were all scheduled to fly to Peru,” Wright said. “So half of us arrived on the day we were supposed to and half arrived a day later.”

“But that second day we all went through orientation under our team site coordinator. She basically gave us the run-through of

how the two weeks were going to go and what clinics were going to be set up. They gave us a refresher course on how to take blood pressure and other vitals, glucose, hemoglobin, and how each station would be run.”

Wright said there were four stations set up for patients using mobile clinics that would move from city to city.

“We would stay in one city for two or three days and take care of people there before moving on to another city and doing the same there,” Wright said. “We shadowed the local doctors and actively participated in diagnosing and prescribing medications.”

“The doctors would give the immunization shots, but we would sit with them and listen to whatever the patients’ symptoms were. The doctors would prescribe medications for the patients, and we got to run the free pharmacy for the patients so they could have access to the medications they needed.”

Wright said the doctors were bilingual and could talk to both the interns and the patients. Wright said she also speaks both English and Spanish, which she said helped the communication process.

She said patients with prediabetic symptoms presented the most common ailment the group saw.

“We also saw a lot of patients with arthritis,” Wright said. “We saw a lot of farmers and a lot of older people — 60 or older, I would say. So, we saw a lot of people with arthritis in their hands, knees and backs. A lot of those people were in physical pain.

“There were a lot of elderly people living alone who didn’t have much support from their families, so it was important to us that we gave them as much medication as they needed so that they could take it themselves and feel relief. The doctors we shadowed told us a lot of those people hadn’t seen a doctor in years and years, so we had to give them enough medication to last for months in some cases.”

While the internships focused on work, they also did allow a little time for the GSU

students to take in some of the Peruvian natural beauty and culture.

“The area we were in wasn’t really a tourist area,” Wright said. “But some of us did go to Machu Picchu (a 15th century Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, above the Urubamba River valley). It was the sight of a lifetime — it was indescribably beautiful.”

Being that Peru is located below the equator, the interns also got to experience “winter in July” for the first time in their lives.

“It’s their wintertime in July,” Wright said. “It got down into the low 30s. I’m from Wisconsin, so it was a pretty good temperature for me. But the temperature in the house we were in got really cold at night. That house had half of our interns, and we were bundled up in our sweaters. I wish I would have brought my coat, because it was really cold at night.”

“But the daytimes were sunny and warmed up enough where it might have been cool, but it was still comfortable.”

In the end, Wright said the best part of receiving the experience of a lifetime while positively impacting others made the trip one she’ll always remember.

“We immersed ourselves fully into the Peruvian culture, and best of all, got to make a lasting impact on our patients,” Wright said. “Their faces of pure joy and their overwhelming kindness to us were unforgettable.

“It was a great learning experience, but maybe even a better life experience.”

GSU STUDENTS, FACULTY ATTEND LET US DREAM CONFERENCE IN INDIA

A team of Grambling State University faculty and five students spent Nov. 3-5 at Christ (Deemed to be University) in Bangalore, India, to participate in the 2023 Triennial International Let Us Dream Conference.

The annual conferences provide opportunities to engage in active conversations concerning community improvement-based research, experience, and best practices in education, health and social activism.

With more than 50 speakers, more than 15 universities and more than 50 community service organizations on hand, the Let Us Dream 2023 conference provided a wealth of knowledge and community engagement.

Grambling State University made history as the only historically black college or university (HBCU) to be represented at the conference with President Rick Gallot, Jr. virtually serving as the keynote speaker on Day 2.

GSU’s student delegation consisted of Tiara Freeman, Jakyrannee Phillips, Mysty Henry (graduate students in Mass Communication and Education), Isaiah Farrell and Terrence Robinson (Call Me

MiSTERs and undergraduate education majors).

Faculty representing GSU at the conference included Dr. Suzanne Mayo-Theus, Dr. George Noflin, Dr. Aaron Livingston, and Dr. Coleen Speed.

Upon arrival at Christ University and throughout the conference, Let Us Dream ambassadors provided great hospitality to Grambling’s students and faculty, and after a good night’s rest, the event commenced as GSU led the Student Workshop with all five students speaking about topics related to their academic majors in the United States, attending an HBCU and life experiences in the South.

Freeman and Phillips, both second year Mass Communication Graduate Students, spoke about the Media In the U.S. and empowering future leaders for tomorrow. In addition to their speeches, the GSU duo also encouraged Christ students to apply to Grambling State University’s Mass Communication program, which has four-year partial scholarships available for international students.

Henry, a graduate student in Education at GSU, delivered a speech titled “Helping Children Thrive Today.” With 25 years of experience in education, Henry was able to enrich the students in attendance with knowledge and tactics she uses for her own students’ growth.

Farrell and Robinson spoke about Grambling State’s Call Me MiSTER program and why African American males are needed in the educational system. The Call Me MiSTER program provides scholarships for African American male students who seek careers in education.

Through this workshop, Grambling’s students were able to inspire the minds of Christ students and showcase the educational and cultural opportunities GSU has to offer.

Grambling’s faculty also stormed the conference with numerous panels and speeches given throughout the three day conference.

Dr. Mayo-Theus, a lecturer in GSU’s Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, spoke about diversity, equity and inclusion with an emphasis on disability and educated the global panel audience on HBCU history.

GRAMBLING STATE OPENS CAREER CLOSET TO OUTFIT STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS

Dressing for success has never been easier for students at Grambling State University.

In conjunction with 2023 Homecoming Week festivities, the university held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Career Closet located on the second floor of the Favrot Student Union. That closet will provide professional attire at no cost for GSU students in need of such for occasions such as job interviews, conference appearances, and the like.

Antoinette Livingston, director of the Center for Career and Professional Development (formerly Career Services) said the project of creating a new Career Closet, emblazoned with the phrase “own every space you enter” on its main wall, came with much help all the way down to the university’s student body itself.

“The students put together shelves, they painted the room, they brought clothing — they brought the whole nine yards,” Livingston said. “So, this isn’t a Center for Career and Professional Development thing, this is a Grambling thing.”

Livingston admitted being overwhelmed by all the support received in moving GSU’s Career Closet to a new location more accessible to students.

“Thank you (Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Rudolph Ellis) for coming into this thing with us,” Livingston said. “Having two closets will make a monumental difference for our students. And (Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation Brandon Logan) has alumni sending stuff. He gets like 100 emails every day from people saying they’re sending stuff or bringing stuff.”

Livingston then reflected back to an old catchphrase used often by legendary GSU football coach Eddie G. Robinson.

“I guess all I can say is — ‘We Grambling.’ Right?” Livingston said. “That’s it, because the way people have shown up and contributed to this is great.”

Livingston also talked about the need for an improved Career Closet.

“It was amazing when I got here to see how many students needed things,” Livingston said. “One thing that stands out to me was a young man that was going to an engineering conference. He came to my office at 4 p.m. one afternoon and was leaving (to the conference) at 3 a.m. the next morning. He found something, but even I was not happy with it.”

“Had I had the ability to, or the time to, I would have gone and bought him something, because when we have young men that look like us going to engineering conferences, that last thing they sure be worrying about is what they’re going to wear. If we can take that worry from there to where all they have to worry about is the studying, the work and the jobs, that’s special.”

The Career Closet features suits, ties, shoes, dresses and accessories such as jewelry.

But Livingston is already thinking ahead about more.

“Now I’m thinking about briefcases,” she said. “I want cufflinks, I want tie clips, I want our students to walk out looking like I want my sons to look when they go to interviews for a job.”

Logan talked about the team effort it took in putting the new Career Closet together in time for Homecoming festivities.

“This is truly a project that took collaboration,” Logan said during the ribbon cutting ceremony. “It was interdepartmental, so Dr. Ellis, I just want to say to you and your team, thank you. (Director of Campus Activities, Student Engagement, and Favrot Student Union) Marcus Kennedy, thank you. When you understand that we have 95% of our students on some form of aid, there’s true service we have to provide for our institution to be able to fill in those gaps. We don’t want any students to have to feel as if they’re not getting what they need on a holistic basis here at Grambling State University.”

“I know that’s the charge our president gives his cabinet, and I want to make sure we are continuing to make sure that we are executing with excellence. So today should be a signature milestone day for us as Grambling Tigers at Homecoming week truly understanding what the ‘Capital of Culture’ is — it’s taking care of each other.”

Now Logan hopes word about the new Career Closet will continue to spread.

“I certainly hope that students and leadership that are here today make this known to their peers — that we have a Career Closet that is of high quality for you to be proud of and not ashamed to walk into it.”

“We want to make sure everyone feels supported on their journey here at Grambling State University. And I hope as we prepare to cut this ribbon today that you now feel that Grambling State has its own Neiman Marcus for you all to shop at — at no cost.”

President Rick Gallot was on hand to hold one end of the ribbon cut by GSU students during the ceremony and express his appreciation.

“Kudos to VP. Logan, Mrs. Livingston, (Interim Alumni Engagement/Annual Giving Coordinator) Tim Stewart and the whole team — everyone — for making this a reality,” Gallot said.

“We’re going to always meet our students where they are, and if where we meet them is a need for suits, or dresses, or whatever it may be, we’re going to be there to meet you.”

JORDAN BRAITHWAITE NAMED AT&T RISING FUTUREMAKER

Jordan Braithwaite, of St. Louis Missouri, was selected as an AT&T Rising FutureMaker scholar.

From a young age, Jordan has been deeply committed to championing the rights of the disenfranchised. Her tenure at Grambling is marked by her strategic and innovative initiatives to actively engage students in civic and social matters. She held significant leadership roles including HBCU White House Scholar, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Intern, AT&T Class of 2023 Rising Future Maker, BeyGood Scholar, Inaugural Xceleader Vote HBCU Fellow, President of her university's NAACP Unit, and Founder and Chairwoman of the Grambling Student Power Network coalition. Additionally, Jordan utilized her organizing efforts to co-led a project that established Grambling State University’s first ever Voting Resource Center, while she excelled in other positions and fellowships that reflect her unwavering dedication to servant leadership and community empowerment.

Jordan aspires to leverage her legal career to drive systemic change, promote racial justice, equality, and an inclusive society. Her expertise in leadership and advocacy underscores her unwavering dedication to making a tangible impact in the fight for a just future for all.

FAMILY OF ZARIA GRIFFITH DONATES $10,000 TO CREATE ENDOWMENT IN HER MEMORY

Grambling State University (GSU) senior Zaria Griffith was preparing to graduate in the fall of 2021 with a degree in biology when she tragically lost her life in a Thanksgiving evening car accident about an hour south of campus.

Griffith received a tremendous standing ovation during that Fall 2021 GSU graduation ceremony as an honorary degree was presented in her honor, something her family says they will never forget.

And to honor Zaria’s memory, and her love for Grambling State, they have set up a $10,000 endowment in her name at the university to remember her in perpetuity.

Griffith’s family said Zaria would take extreme pride in knowing her legacy will continue at Grambling State University.

Zaria’s family presented a $10,000 check to GSU President Rick Gallot during the 50th annual Bayou Classic festivities in New Orleans.

MAGIC JOHNSON ENTERPRISES SURPRISES GRAMBLING

UNIVERSITY

FOUNDATION WITH TRANSFORMATIVE

$500,000 GIFT AT KICKS BALL GALA

NBA LEGEND’S GENEROSITY AMPLIFIES

IMPACT OF SIGNATURE FUNDRAISING EVENT DURING BAYOU CLASSIC WEEKEND

The Kicks Ball, an annual fundraising event hosted by the Grambling University Foundation, witnessed a remarkable moment of philanthropy as a generous donation of $500,000 from Magic Johnson Enterprises was announced during the black-tie affair.

Presented by adidas, the event was held during Bayou Classic Weekend at the Hilton Riverside New Orleans and brought together an array of alumni and supporters of higher education. The Grambling University Foundation’s mission to advance the institution for excellence took center stage, and the evening unfolded as a celebration of glamour, generosity, and commitment to impacting the lives of students at Grambling State University. Upon entering the Chemin Royale foyer of the grand ballroom, attendees were greeted by elegant visual experiences that included an adidas branded wall outfitted with several pairs of the Grambling State Rivalry shoe, a portrait opportunity with New Orleans photographer Tyler Roi, and several items to bid on as part of the silent auction. Social media influencers Makayla and Makyla Dowdell (known as the Mad Twinz) were also on hand to interview program participants.

Once doors opened to the ballroom, guests were welcomed to a captivating ambiance and the musical stylings of Ashanti the Mad Violinist as they took their seats.

"...I’ve made it my life’s mission to invest in our community and I believe that begins with investing in our young people..."

The night proceeded with local anchor Kelsey Davis and actor/ comedian/TV personality Bill Bellamy who served as Masters of Ceremonies. After fine dining ensued, Davis and Bellamy took everyone on a journey about the party with a purpose as moving vignettes played, Kicks Ball awardees were presented, and the fundraising segment of the event began.

A Game-Changing Gift

In a moment that left attendees in awe, Christina Francis, President of Magic Johnson Enterprises took the stage to announce a substantial donation of $500,000 to the Grambling University Foundation to benefit the GAP Scholarship Fund. Although the NBA legend was unable to attend, he wanted to express his admiration for the Foundation’s dedication to fostering education and empowering students.

“Dr. Richard Gallot has been an amazing leader for Grambling State University. His vision has helped prepare the young Black men and women at Grambling in their progression as top leaders in today’s society. While I did not attend a HBCU, I’ve made it my life’s mission to invest in our community and I believe that begins with investing in our young people,” said Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises. “I’m blessed to be able to financially support Grambling and other HBCUs to ensure their students have a top-notch education and as many opportunities as possible to be successful.”

The unexpected gift from Magic Johnson Enterprises significantly amplified the impact of the Kicks Ball Gala and will create a continual effect on the sustainability of the GAP Scholarship fund.

“It’s hard to put into words. I think it is a reminder that we’re on the right track,” said Brandon A. Logan, Executive Director of the Grambling University Foundation. “The university is reaping the harvest like never before. I’m just honored to be a part of developing a strategy and executing a plan that is yielding results that we’ve never seen before. And all glory to God, I’m grateful for the team and it just shows what we’re capable of when we can unify over something that has good purpose and meaning.”

Logan also expressed his appreciation for Grambling State alumni and supporters. Commonly referred to as GramFam, he said this is a significant moment that we can’t escape, but it’s also not the end.

"This should be our floor as we work towards the ceiling. So there’s much more in store..."

“This should be our floor as we work towards the ceiling. So there’s much more in store,” said Logan. “I encourage everyone to lean in to where they can contribute. It is going to take a collective effort to make the type of difference that we all envision and see for our Institution.”

As guests began to enjoy the soulful sounds of Anthony Hamilton and the Ton3s, Grambling State University President Rick Gallot reflected upon the evening with optimism for what lies ahead.

“I believe what we’ve seen tonight is a reflection of [Logan’s] focus on making the event special,” said President Gallot. “Everybody’s been very intentional about taking time to learn the Why behind this event. We have the potential now to see GSU funding through the Student Gap Fund in a way that we will be able to continue to see funds available in perpetuity.”

2023 Kicks Ball Honorees

Student Excellence Award

Jordan Braithwaite

Service Excellence Award

Dr. Meg Brown Associate Dean of the School of Nursing

Community Changemaker Award

Dr. James Runcie CEO and Co-Founder of the Partnership for Education Advancement

Business Excellence Award

Thomas Moorehead President, Sterling Motorcars

Special Recognition Award

Richard J. Gallot, Jr. 10th President of Grambling State University

LEADING FROM THE FRONT: $25,000 ALUM GIFT TO TENNIS MARKS LARGEST IN HISTORY OF THE PROGRAM

IN TENNIS, A VOLLEY ALWAYS STARTS WITH A SERVE, AND GRAMBLING UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBER JUAN CUNNINGHAM IS HOPING HE HAS FIRED AN ACE WITH A RECENT $25,000 DONATION TO THE GRAMBLING STATE TENNIS PROGRAM, THE LARGEST SINGLE, PRIVATE DONATION THAT THE PROGRAM HAS EVER RECEIVED.

Cunningham, a Grambling State University alumnus who was recently on campus as a member of the Golden Graduate Class of 1973, said it was a combination of college memories and seeing an obvious need that led to his decision to direct his donation toward the tennis program.

“There were tennis courts at Grambling when I was there,” Cunningham said. “Grambling had a tennis team, and while I didn’t play for it, I did play a lot of tennis while I was there. It was just playing with friends there and that kind of thing, but I’ve always been a tennis fan and loved playing on those courts.

“My wife and I met on the tennis court. We’re both very active in tennis. We’re fans. We play. We watch tournaments all over the world as fans. That’s my motivation.”

As a strong supporter who wants to see all of Grambling’s athletics programs succeed, Cunningham finds himself concerned about what he believes is a glaring need for the GSU tennis team.

“It was terribly disappointing to learn that we have to go to (Louisiana) Tech for our tennis activities. “What troubles me — that we have a tennis team but no real facility for them to use,” Cunningham said. “That’s like having a back porch but having to go to the neighbor’s house to do a barbecue. I’m a very serious tennis fan. I do play — I’ve played all of my life. Right now, in retirement I normally play three times a week. And the fact that my institution that I’m so proud of doesn’t have a tennis facility where it can host other institutions in tennis matches is disappointing.”

“So I choose to lead by example and try to encourage others to do the same, that’s why I’m doing this.”

Hence the donation he hopes leads to GSU being able to eventually provide a facility of their own for Grambling State’s tennis team.

“I’m supportive of having a Grambling tennis program that is able to have its own facility,” Cunningham said. “That’s why I made my contribution which is only a drop in the bucket toward what is going to be required. But that’s what I had in mind with the donation. We should be able to host our own activities on our campus and not have to go to a neighboring institution.”

Cunningham, who spent a 42-1/2-year career at Norfolk Southern Corporation, retiring as vice president of human resources after graduating from GSU in 1973 with a degree in business management, believes the need for such a facility is important.

“I wanted to make a contribution to the school,” Cunningham said. “Normally my contribution would go to wherever there’s a need.

“But I started looking for a spot where I thought there was a deficit and this was one of those areas where there is not only a deficit, but I have a personal sense of embarrassment. This is something that I wanted to help correct. Whether or not I can make a difference, I don’t know.”

He hopes that difference might come in the form of encouraging fellow Grambling alumni to follow with donations of their own.

“I’ve got to be honest, that’s an area — in terms of giving back to our alma mater — something that we (GSU) as an institution have not excelled at. We’ve never made giving a part of our culture. As a career professional, I have worked with other institutions that have done a much better job of instilling that giving culture in their students and graduates.

“So I choose to lead by example and try to encourage others to do the same, that’s why I’m doing this.”

At Norfolk Southern, Cunningham saw some outside-the-box, culture-instilling thinking he hopes can become part of the Grambling State University culture.

“I ended up at Norfolk Southern after earning my business degree, which was odd because the division I went into at Norfolk Southern was an area where they recruited civil

engineers,” Cunningham said. “But with a dearth of minority civil engineers, they more or less recruited a lot of Black students to their management-training program. It would have been a lot easier for me had I been a civil engineer, but I wasn’t.”

“I’m

supportive of having a Grambling tennis program that

is able to have its own facility,” Cunningham said. “That’s why I made my contribution which is only a drop in the bucket toward what is going to be required. But that’s what I had in mind with the donation. We should be able to host our own

activities on our campus and not have to go to a neighboring institution.”

“But they extended outreach and brought in some non-civil engineers and provided us with the same kind of training they provided civil engineers.”

After seeing that kind of thinking succeed, Cunningham believes GSU’s outreach for alumni giving should begin on the student level.

“In my role as vice president of HR (at Norfolk Southern), we sent some of our students to developmental programs at Harvard, at Dartmouth, at the University of Virginia, the University of Tennessee — some of the top schools in the country. And most of those schools begin to immediately solicit those candidates for contributions to the university and refer to them as an alumnus because of what that does in terms of encouraging support for their institutions.”

“We didn’t do it then when I was studying at Grambling and from what I can tell today we’re not doing all we should do to instill a culture of giving back to our institution. We’re very proud of it, but we don’t necessarily provide the kind of financial support that a lot of alumni do at other institutions. Sometimes you’ve got to lead from the start, and that’s my mindset in terms of this donation.”

BUFFALO BILLS ASSISTANT HEAD COACH ERIC WASHINGTON CONTINUES INVESTMENT IN ALMA MATER WITH $51,500 DONATION

DONATION TO BENEFIT GAP SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Buffalo Bills assistant head coach/defensive line coach Eric Washington is all about producing positive results.

Whether it’s showing his love for his team on a football field or the love of his college alma mater—Grambling State University—Washington is all about giving back.

That’s shown on the gridiron as Washington, who was promoted to assistant head coach at Buffalo last summer, and helped his team to a No. 2 seed in the AFC playoffs, leading his team to play host to the seventh-seeded Pittsburgh Steelers this season.

And it’s shown in Washington’s loyal generosity to GSU. After making a $30,000 donation to the university’s GAP Scholarship Fund last March, Washington again showed his devotion to Grambling State last month with a gift of $51,500.

His $51,500 donation will be directed toward two of the areas he feels still need the most financial attention at the university — $15,000 will go to the school’s GAP Scholarship fund while $36,500 will go toward GSU’s(delete) improving salaries and positions for GSU’s baseball coaching staff.

GAP scholarships are established through Grambling University Foundation funding and the generosity of donors and are designed to help students who have exhausted all student loan and financial aid options, and to essentially help students fill the gap needed to continue with their education.

Washington’s views toward donating to his alma mater falls perfectly in line with his football coaching philosophy and was shown during a Bills press conference on Monday when he talked about the need for everyone to step up and contribute toward a winning goal.

“We’re going to need everyone involved,” Washington said during a press conference held on Monday. “It’s a delicate blend and we just have to make sure that whatever we’re doing, it’s for the best of the team.”

GRAMBLING STATE AWARDED MORE THAN $175,000 FOR SPRING SEMESTER SCHOLARSHIPS

A total of 61 different donor-funded scholarships totaling $176,977 were awarded to 161 Grambling State University students for the 2024 spring semester.

Collectively, these scholarships received 4,283 applications, which were reviewed by a dedicated team that included the GSU Scholarship Committee, Financial Aid staff, and University Advancement and Innovation staff.

The Dr. Neari F. Warner Endowed Student Scholarship was the most awarded, going to 24 recipients, while the Coca-Cola Scholars and adidas Power of Sport Fund of Oregon Community Foundation each awarded 10 scholarships.

“The vast majority of students attending Grambling State University qualify for some form of federal aid, so when you understand the economic backgrounds of our campus scholars, I am inspired to maximize the available dollars from our non-endowed and endowed scholarship funds to make a positive difference in their lives,” Logan said.

“Year after year our scholarships have proven to be the difference between students maintaining a good standing with the university to finish coursework for a semester.”

Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation Brandon A. Logan said those scholarships are crucial for many Grambling State students.

GRAMBLING STATE GRADUATE STUDENT HONORED BY IBM MASTER’S FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

Grambling State University graduate student Yimara McCartney-Rosson was named a 2022/23 IBM Masters Fellowship Program honoree.

The IBM Masters Fellowship Program seeks to support exceptional graduate students who want to make their mark in promising and disruptive technologies, regardless of their field of study.

Logan said diversity is key in helping provide such scholarships.

“Considering the amount of academic offerings and the depth of financial need for our students, it is a strategic imperative that we have a diversified mix of funders, fund levels, and scholarship types available for distribution,” Logan said.

Logan said helping fund such endowed scholarships is about investing in the future for a university looking to continue to send impact-making graduates into the workforce for the betterment of all.

“As one of the top social and economic mobility institutions in the country, Grambling State University has a longstanding history of modeling excellence in the classroom,” Logan said. “Investing in the life of a student at Grambling State will yield extraordinary returns to our investors and society. It is always a great time to be the difference.”

The award recipients include those who are studying computer science, medical research, law, social sciences, physics, engineering, and math at Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the United States.

"I’m so appreciative to receive this award and everything IBM and Grambling State University have done for me,” McCartney-Rosson said. “It’s a true honor and something I can build on as I continue building toward reaching my career aspirations."

McCartney-Rosson, who is currently completing her Master’s of Science degree in Criminal Justice and is set to graduate in May, earned an $11,000 reward for her research.

GRAMBLING STATE TO NAME FIELD AT EDDIE G. ROBINSON MEMORIAL STADIUM IN HONOR OF JAMES “SHACK” HARRIS AND DOUG WILLIAMS DURING HOMECOMING

"This is an outstanding honor for me, my family, coaches and all my teammates. I would like to thank President Rick Gallot, AD Trayvean Scott and the Grambling family for this dedication," said Harris.

"Sharing it with Doug Williams makes it even more special. I am very fortunate to have played for the great Coach Eddie Robinson. I am forever grateful to Grambling for providing me an education and tremendous HBCU experience. I hope my career represented Grambling well and made you proud. Thanks again and God bless."

"This is so surreal for me. This is such a humbling honor to have James "Shack" Harris and my name plastered on a field in Eddie Robinson stadium," said Williams.

"This is something that will stand time for my kids and grandkids to see. I would like to thank President Rick Gallot and Athletic Director Trayvean Scott for having the vision for such a beautiful and wonderful honor. I also want to say this for all the guys I have had the pleasure of playing with and to let them how much a part that they played."

JAMES "SHACK" HARRIS

DOUG WILLIAMS

TELL THEM WE ARE BUILDING: GRAMBLING STATE BREAKS GROUND TO BUILD ON FUTURE WITH STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER

TELL THEM WE ARE BUILDING: GRAMBLING BREAKS GROUND TO BUILD ON FUTURE STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER

Grambling State University continued building on its focus of making student service a hallmark of the student experience at GSU with a groundbreaking ceremony the morning of June 6th, at the site where the Black & Gold Facilities, Inc. will build a Student Success Center.

Grambling State University continued building on its focus of making student service a hallmark of the groundbreaking ceremony the morning of June 6th, at the site where the Black & Gold Facilities, Inc.

As the institution seeks to improve its essential student services, GSU believes it is paramount to develop an infrastructure that enables broad outreach by leveraging the assets at its disposal to achieve an enhanced student life experience.

As the institution seeks to improve its essential student services, GSU believes it is paramount to develop broad outreach by leveraging the assets at its disposal to achieve an enhanced student life experience.

“We gather here to break ground on a beacon of progress, a symbol of our unwavering commitment to student success,” said Grambling State President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. “So, as we assemble here today, and as you depart, I invite you to tell them we’re building.

“We gather here to break ground on a beacon of progress, a symbol of our unwavering commitment State President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. “So, as we assemble here today, and as you depart, I invite you

“Tell them we’re building a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are forged. This Student Success Center will be the cornerstone of our campus embodying our dedication to the success of every student’s experience. Tell them we’re building a hub of innovation and collaboration with Black and Gold Facilities, Inc.”

“Tell them we’re building a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are forged. This Student Success of our campus embodying our dedication to the success of every student’s experience. Tell them we’re collaboration with Black and Gold Facilities, Inc.”

The project mission, as articulated by user stakeholders, is laser-focused on positioning students for perpetual success by providing centralized, essential student services and academic services that generate their individual success, iconic identity, pride of space, and enduring loyalty.

The project mission, as articulated by user stakeholders, is laser-focused on positioning students for centralized, essential student services and academic services that generate their individual success, enduring loyalty.

To make that happen, Grambling State has partnered with Black and Gold Facilities, Inc. to build a Student Success Center that will strategically shape the functional and physical infrastructure. The structure will create a centralized, collaborative, and safe environment for

To make that happen, Grambling State has partnered with Black and Gold Facilities, Inc. to build a Student gically shape the functional and physical infrastructure. The structure will create a centralized, collaborative,

in axis with Long Jones Hall, that embodies centralization

Located on the campus quadrangle in axis with Long Jones Hall, the project seeks to deliver a facility that embodies centralization

of this and an additional project that are not coming out of the additional money.”

delivery resources in a cento an enhanced experience

interaction, engagement, and service delivery resources in a centralized location that will contribute to an enhanced experience for students.

Black and Gold Facilities, Inc. Director Robert Clark said he was thrilled to celebrate such a historic occasion for GSU.

three-story, 60,000-square

Development, Admissions/ Financial Aid.

Center for Career and Professional Development, Admissions/ Recruitment, the Registrar, and Financial Aid.

charts a new path for the built University,” said GSU Vice PresiInnovation Brandon A. Logan.

“This project marks a future that charts a new path for the built environment at Grambling State University,” said GSU Vice President of University Advancement and Innovation Brandon A. Logan.

lighting design will provide an particular milestones and departments.

The Student Success Center’s lighting design will provide an opportunity to use color to celebrate particular milestones and accomplishments by university departments.

eliminate operational hurdles

Lemelle said. “Tell them we’re student has the resources they services and academic support

“We are creating a space that will eliminate operational hurdles experience and engagement,” Dr. Lemelle said. “Tell them we’re building a future where every student has the resources they need to excel. Centralized student services and academic support

Grambling State University. tradition of excellence. This campus Quad with access to enhance our infrastructure but will and visionary outlook. There’s bold for Grambling.”

“Tell them we’re building a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are forged.” building on excellence.”

“Tell them we’re building a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are forged.”

“I haven’t been this excited since May of 2010 when we opened the Eddie Robinson Museum, a great day for Grambling,” Clark said. “A while back we received $25 million from Washington D.C. As a result of that, we were given the task of facilitating, planning, designing, developing and constructing a facility on the Grambling State University campus.

“Back in the day when a student had to register, they had to go

space and enduring loyalty to Grambling State University.

“Tell them we’re building on our tradition of excellence. This facility, strategically located on the campus Quad with access to Long Jones Hall, will not only enhance our infrastructure but will also signify our forward progress and visionary outlook. There’s still no vision that’s too big or too bold for Grambling.”

“Back in the day when a student had to register, they had to go

words, it’s a one-stop shop. And as we were planning this, we realized a more appropriate name would be a Student Success Center — one building that can accommodate registration,

that constructing the Student Success Center will be a triumphant achievement.

“We met every Tuesday for months,” Clark said. “It seemed like years. We built an all-star team —- M3A Architecture out of Jackson, Mississippi; Lincoln Builders from two doors

“Tell them we’re building on our tradition of excellence.”

Gold Facilities, Inc; from government during the COVID System President, Rick Gallot groundbreaking ceremony and thanked

task before them.

Funding will come through Black and Gold Facilities, Inc; from monies received from the federal government during the COVID 19 pandemic. University of Louisiana System President, Rick Gallot was on hand during the groundbreaking ceremony and thanked

president, and current GSU CFO

“We met every Tuesday for months,” Clark said. “It seemed like years. We built an all-star team —- M3A Architecture out of Jackson, Mississippi; Lincoln Builders from two doors

task before them.

“They have assured me they will come in on top, and within budget. We’ve got $25 million — not $26M, not $27.5M, but $25M. We’ve got a timeframe they’ve ensured me they will meet, and I am comfortable in their abilities to do so.”

Gallot was serving as university president, and current GSU CFO

federal funding GSU received.

thank President Lemelle and conservative, very judicious, could leverage these dollars the pandemic that was

As he concluded his remarks, Dr. Lemelle said it’s all about building a stronger future for Grambling State University and its students.

“I think it’s very important for me to thank President Lemelle and money,” Gallot said. “They were very conservative, very judicious, and very forward thinking in how we could leverage these dollars that came from Washington during the pandemic that was unprecedented.

on this university to the stuwas, again, the fact that they these dollars and because of that will go to the construction

As he concluded his remarks, Dr. Lemelle said it’s all about building a stronger future for Grambling State University and its students.

“This development represents the dawn of a new reality,

Grambling State University,” Dr. Lemelle said. “So, as we stand on this ground today, let us envision the countless students who will walk these halls, engage in transformative learning experiences, and carry the legacy of Grambling State University forward.

“How could we make a lasting mark on this university to the students of today and the future? And it was, again, the fact that they were very conservative in our use of these dollars and because of that we have those federal dollars that will go to the construction

“Tell them we’re building dreams. We’re building futures, and Grambling State University.”

SUPPORTING ALL LEARNING

A space to connect, create, and collaborate, the state-of-the-art, 50,000 square foot facility is designed to be an inclusive environment for innovative experiences that supports all learning. With over 150 computer stations, 17,000 square feet of study space, and multipurpose spaces for events, meetings, and seminars, the Digital Library and Learning Commons will be the ultimate intersection of academics, curiosity, and community.

Learn more at: gram.edu/library

50,000 SQUARE FOOT FACILITY 17,000 SQUARE FEET OF STUDY SPACE

150 COMPUTER STATIONS

DISTINGUISHED 10 ALUMNI AWARDS CEREMONY

The Center for Career and Professional Development at Grambling State University celebrated its inaugural cohort of The Distinguished 10 with an award ceremony, bringing a new level of recognition to its annual Homecoming celebrations. The Distinguished 10 Award was established to honor alumni who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership in their fields and communities. Each honoree exemplifies the university's legacy of excellence, with accomplishments that inspire the Grambling State community and embody the values that define our mission.

The inaugural cohort reflects the diversity and impact of Grambling State alumni. Honoree Patricia Cage Bibbs, a celebrated figure in women’s basketball, has left an indelible mark through her coaching achievements and numerous awards, including inductions into the Grambling Legends Hall of Fame and the SWAC Hall of Fame. Kyrus Branch, a 2003 graduate, has made significant contributions to law enforcement as the East District Patrol Deputy Chief in Arlington, Texas, alongside his work as an educator in criminal justice.

Dr. Farrah Gafford Cambrice, a sociology professor at Prairie View A&M University, was recognized for her influential research on race, disaster recovery, and community resilience. Dr. Evelyn Ford Crayton, a 1968 graduate and a trailblazer in the field of nutrition, has served as the first African American President of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and continues to mentor future leaders in dietetics through her work at Living Well Associates, LLC.

Entrepreneurship and business innovation were highlighted through Laphilia Nicole Davis, founder and CEO of Butler-Davis Tax & Accounting, who has more than two decades of experience in tax strategy and accounting. At Microsoft Philanthropies, La Shanda Hurst’s role as Business Program Manager exemplifies her dedication to philanthropy, community engagement, and the advancement of diversity within the technology sector. Prince Hutchinson, a specialist at State Farm, continues to elevate the profile of HBCUs through his leadership in talent acquisition and STEM engagement.

The inaugural class also celebrated educators like Dr. Joslin Mar-Dai Pickens, Chair of the Communication and General Studies Department at Southern University at Shreveport, and Dr. Lamarr Shields, Co-Founder of the Cambio Group, whose work with youth education and advocacy is reshaping learning environments for Black and Latino students. Lastly, Dr. Melva K. Wallace, the seventh President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University, was recognized for her visionary leadership and commitment to advancing higher education within the HBCU community.

The Distinguished 10 Award Ceremony commemorated the achievements of these alumni whose careers exemplify the transformative potential of a Grambling State education. The honorees’ accomplishments serve as a beacon for current students, alumni, and the broader community, reinforcing the university’s mission to produce leaders who impact their industries and inspire the world.

2023 Distinguished 10 Honorees

GOLDEN GRADUATE REUNION

FUELS REFLECTION, INVESTMENT FOR CLASS OF 1974

It is not often you get the opportunity to celebrate with classmates of 50 years during Commencement. The last class of Grambling College, 29 Golden Graduates, and their families came together for a once-in-a-lifetime class reunion at Grambling State University.

The graduates reconnected at a continental breakfast at the Eddie Robison Museum. Touring the museum, seeing statues, and historical stories sparked interest. Sharing memories and seeing familiar faces took the graduates back to a time they would never forget.

The graduates took an exclusive tour around campus seeing the changes that were made within 50 years.

Louis Jenkins was proud to speak on the expectations from his professor and President.

“The professors did not expect failure from us, their expectations were for us to conquer and succeed,” Jenkins said. “President Ralph Waldo Emerson Jones delivered a message to me that sticks with me until this day. [President Jones] said, ‘You cannot talk about black power without having power. You have to require power and that is through education.”

Golden Graduates also viewed a ‘Remember the Times Reel’, that reflected on the climate and culture of the campus and nation. Before their class meeting, they were gifted a 50th-anniversary box that included several commemorative keepsakes.

As the day ended, the beginning of a beautiful night began. The Golden Graduates danced the night away at The Golden Experience. A night of smiles, laughter, and new memories were added to their Grambling experience.

Kyrus Branch, ‘03

Prince Hutchinson, ‘05

Dr. Joslin Mar-Dai Pickens, ‘00

Laphilia Nicole Davis, ‘03

Dr. Farrah Gafford Cambrice, ‘99

Dr. Melva K. Wallace, ‘99

Dr. Evelyn Ford Crayton, ‘68

Patricia Cage Bibbs, ‘72

La Shanda Hurst, ‘95

Dr. Lamarr Shields, ‘94

GRAMBLING STATE STUDENT AMONG FIRST IN HIS FAMILY TO GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE

First was a keyword for graduating senior JaSahn Brown in his journey through life. He felt his years as a Grambling State University (GSU) student have been a first-class experience.

Brown, who grew up in Lafayette, Louisiana, where he attended Northside High School, is the first male on his father’s side of the family to graduate from high school, let alone college.

He said becoming a member of the World Famed Marching Tiger Band was the main force in bringing him to Grambling.

“The band along with financial opportunities being a part of the band made my decision an easy one,” Brown said. “But the band is my whole life. It’s what I love and it’s who I am.

“I’m proud to be the first male in my family to graduate college, no one else on that side of my family had ever gone that far with their education. But the thing I’m probably proudest of is being a member of the Grambling band and going on to earn my degree from Grambling [State].”

A music major with a concentration in Liberal Arts and a member of Kappa Kappa Psi, a national honorary band fraternity, Brown said he intends to keep music as a big part of his life and plans return to his hometown to teach music.

”I’m going back home to Lafayette and hopefully get a job teaching music at a middle school,” Brown said. “That’s how I got my start in music, and because music is my passion that just seems like the right thing for me — giving back to what led me to Grambling and earning my degree.”

Brown admitted being part of the was a challenge at times.

“Academically, it was a learning experience where I literally had to learn my way,” Brown said. “Time management is the most important thing, because if you’re not careful, you can run out of time. That happened early on when I got to Grambling because I ran out of time and failed one of my first courses.

“But that taught me the importance of time management, and how I needed to learn to balance being in the band and my social life with the education side of things. I had to realize that was what

I came to Grambling for — that education — and everything else follows. But I learned how to handle all of it and learned a lesson about managing my time and setting priorities. But being a part of the band made all of the hard work worthwhile.”

Dr. Nikole Roebuck, Department of Music head and Director of Bands, appreciates the commitment Brown has shown to the band.

“I’m proud to be the first male in my family to graduate college..."

“Jasahn Brown exemplified the commitment, passion and spirit that makes the World Famed Tiger Marching Band truly world-renowned. Through his leadership and dedication to excellence, he helped lift the band to new heights and inspire countless students to pour their heart and soul into the music.”

Fittingly, Brown’s favorite moments as a GSU student have all been about firsts in his life.

“The first time I flew on a plane was with the band,” Brown said. “The first time I went to New York, which I really enjoyed, the first time I went to Las Vegas, which I also really enjoyed, were both with the band.

“I’ve gone to a lot of big football stadiums for the first time with the band. Those will always be my favorite moments at Grambling because the band gave me the opportunity to experience so many firsts.”

Brown said a strong work ethic will be the most important thing he’ll take with him from Grambling as he moves on with his life.

“A lot of people I hang around are also in the band and they continue to push me,” Brown said. “They push me in many different ways, all trying to make me a better and stronger person.

“So it’s the work ethic they push me to have is the biggest thing I’ll take with me as I move on with the rest of my life.”

Theodore Callier Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs

Dr. Bharat Rawal Head, Department of Computer Science and Digital Technologies

Mickey Joseph Head Coach, Football

Courtney Simmons Head Coach, Women's Basketball

Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. University President

Elliot Simmons Head Coach, Women's Tennis

Brandon A. Logan

Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation

Dr. Derrick V. Warren Dean, College of Business

Madison Johnson 70th Miss Grambling State University

Adarian Williams

President, Graduate Student Association

Alexa Johnson President, Student Government Association

GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY BREAKS FUNDRAISING GOAL DURING 1901 DAY OF GIVING CAMPAIGN

GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY CONTINUES TO EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

RAISING $516,362 FOR THE 1901 DAY OF GIVING WITH THE HELP OF ALUMNI, FACULTY, STAFF, STUDENTS, AND FRIENDS. A 24% INCREASE FROM THE 2023 CAMPAIGN, GSU RECEIVED OVER 1,000 INVESTORS WITH AN AVERAGE GIFT OF $580.

The investment areas for the year’s campaign were as follows: Academic Excellence, Access and Opportunity, GAP Fund, Presidential Priorities (included unrestricted gifts), Student Experience and Engagement, and Tiger Athletics.

“These funds will significantly enhance our ability to provide exceptional educational experiences, support groundbreaking research, and foster a vibrant campus experience.” said Grambling State University President Martin Lemelle, Jr. ” As we look to the future, this success sets a new standard for what we can accomplish together, and I am confident that our continued collective efforts will drive Grambling State University to even greater heights.”

“These funds will significantly enhance our ability to provide exceptional educational experiences, support groundbreaking research, and foster a vibrant campus experience.”

GRAMBLING STATE SEES 10% INCREASE IN FRESHMEN ENROLLMENT

FOR A SECOND STRAIGHT YEAR, GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY HAS SEEN A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF NEW INCOMING FRESHMEN.

Overall fall of 2023 enrollment numbers show GSU with 5,114 students, an increase over the fall of 2022 numbers, which stood at 5,074.

However, the increase in first-time freshman students is more significant. Fall 2023 enrollment numbers include a total of 955 first-time freshmen, up from 861 first-time freshmen who started school at GSU in the fall of 2022.

“One of the major highlights of our Fall enrollment is the 10% growth in our New Freshmen population,” said GSU Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management Dr. Gavin Hamms. “We have experienced a 27% growth in our new freshmen population over the past two years. The entire Grambling [State] Family has done an exceptional job of recruiting and educating prospective students of the benefits of obtaining a degree from [this institution].”

“We are excited about this new class of freshmen,” said Grambling State President Rick Gallot. “We are grateful they have chosen Grambling State – a place where they will be celebrated, cultivated, and appreciated.”

Dr. Hamms was also pleased to see an increase in Grambling State’s retention rate.

Retention rates measure the percentage of first-time undergraduate students who return to the same institution the following fall, and graduation rates measure the percentage of first-time, full-time undergraduate students who complete their program at the same institution within a specified period of time.

GSU’s fall of 2022 retention rate also climbed, moving up to 76.19% from the fall of 2022 rate of 71.76%.

“Another highlight in GSU’s fall 2023 enrollment numbers is a 5-percentage point growth in our first to second-year retention rate,” Hamms said. “This emphasizes the fact that we are making intentional efforts to ensure that our students progress and succeed.”

GRAMBLING STATE PAST PRESIDENT

RICK GALLOT HOPEFUL, HONORED BY UL SYSTEM APPOINTMENT

During a special meeting, the Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to appoint Richard J. Gallot, Jr., JD as the next President and CEO of the University of Louisiana System. Gallot is the first Gramblinite and second African American appointed to the position.

While serving as President of Grambling State University, Gallot previously represented the city of Grambling and northeast Louisiana in both the state Senate and House of Representatives.

“Rick’s long career of servant leadership to our state prepared him well for this role,” Board Chair Liz Pierre said in a UL System release. “After thoughtful consideration, the Board believes President Gallot is best positioned to lead the University of Louisiana System to new heights in the coming years.”

Named the 10th president of Grambling State in 2016, Gallot led the institution through a period of historic growth including a 200 percent improvement in the fiscal health score, new enrollment records, development of transformational partnerships, increases in retention rates, and the establishment of new and innovative academic degree programs.

WHY NOT US: GRAMBLING DANCE

Why Not Us: Grambling Dance brings viewers inside the world of Grambling State University’s Orchesis Dance Company, part of the iconic World Famed Tiger Marching Band, to illuminate the unique culture and importance of HBCUs. Created by Chris Paul and ESPN's The Undefeated, the series aims to highlight how HBCUs like Grambling build community, develop Black talent, and foster deep pride and resilience. Through the Orchesis Dance Company's dedication and hard work, Why Not Us showcases how HBCUs like Grambling State help shape students' lives and preserve powerful traditions that continue to inspire future generations.

The men’s basketball team clinched their first SWAC Tournament title with a 75-66 win over Texas Southern, earning their first NCAA Tournament spot in school history.

GRAMBLING STATE NURSING GRADUATES CELEBRATE 100% NCLEX PASS RATE FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

For a second consecutive year, Grambling State University (GSU) College of Professional Studies celebrated after all 11 of its 2023 School of Nursing graduates passed the National Council Licensure Examination (for) Registered Nurses (NCLEX) exam as first-time test takers.

A National Council of State Board of Nursing exam is used to test the competency of nursing school graduates in the U.S. and Canada, a passing grade is required to become a registered nurse.

Last year, GSU achieved a 100% pass rate for the first time in the history of the School of Nursing at GSU as all 16 of its new graduates passed the test.

The Louisiana Board of Nursing requires an 80% NCLEX-RN passage rate for first-time testers for full state approval.

Dr. Meg Brown, associate dean of GSU’s School of Nursing, attributed one of the primary factors behind the university’s success in NCLEX scores over the past two years to nursing faculty.

“GSU’s School of Nursing faculty equips the students with knowledge and skills to care for the residents in Louisiana and throughout the United States.”

Dr. Brown said the second straight 100% passing rate bodes well for the future of GSU’s nursing program.

“The significance of a repeat of achieving 100% for first-time attempts on NCLEX-RN is validation that the planned curriculum and teaching strategies produce exceptional outcomes,” Brown said. “Another significance is the second straight 100% passing rate is that it creates an expected increase in inquiries for our BSN program.”

Accredited by the (CCNE), the 12-month curriculum format offers programs in pre-nursing, BSN, RN to BSN, and MSN.

The men’s baseball team captured their 10th SWAC Championship in May 2024, defeating Jackson State 6-5.

GRAMBLING STATE AWARDED KEEP LOUISIANA BEAUTIFUL UNIVERSITY

AFFILIATE GRANT FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF CAMPUS WIDE RECYCLING PROJECT

Keep GSU Beautiful was selected once again as a recipient of the University Affiliate Grant by Keep Louisiana Beautiful, the state’s premier anti-litter and community improvement organization.

The 2023 grant, in the amount of $4,510 will support the continuation of the previous start-up of the GSU’s Recycling Project.

The purpose of the GSU Recycling Project is designed to be a two-fold educational project.

To reduce the amount of paper and plastics that GSU sends to the local landfills and to also provide a base to support student environmental learning as well.

The educational component of the project will be established by the involvement of both faculty and students. The proposed project will also provide an avenue in which students can achieve the required Service Learning hours as well.

The grant was written by Dr. Dagne Hill. Dr. Rory Bedford and Dr. Ellen Smiley will provide leadership and guidance in this important GSU endeavor.

CONGRESSWOMAN LETLOW RESONATES SUPPORT AND MOMENTUM FOR GRAMBLING STATE MISTER PROGRAM

ENERGY AND IMPACT.

That was both the message U.S. Rep. Julia Letllow brought as she served as opening speaker, presenting a “national perspective,” during the first day of the national Call Me MiSTER conference hosted by Grambling State University (GSU) in the auditorium of the Betty Smith Nursing Building. FULL STORY

The women’s soccer team captured the 2023 SWAC title with a 2-1 victory over Jackson State.

GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR RECEIVES $54K GRANT TO RESEARCH CANCER PREVENTION

An endowed professor at Grambling State University received a $54,000 grant to research cancer prevention.

Waneene Dorsey, the Ernest Everett Just Endowed Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, received the grant from the Louisiana Board of Regents to fund cancer research on toxicogenomics.

This field of science combines toxicology and genomics to understand the collection, interpretation and storage of information about gene and protein activity within a particular cell or tissue of an organism in response to toxic substances.

Since cancer is the uncontrolled multiplication of DNA-damaged cells, identifying what molecules activate cancer gene proteins could lead to the discovery of ways to prevent the onset of cancer.

“I am identifying molecules that turn on cancer gene proteins in mouse liver cells, which allow the uncontrolled behavior of cells,” Dorsey said. “Once the biomolecules have been identified, they can be blocked by various chemicals. These chemicals have the potential to provide a medicinal tool to help prevent the onset of cancer.”

Dorsey’s research proposal was submitted to cancer research specialists in other states for review by the Louisiana Board of Regents. Her proposal ranked number 18 out of 36 funded proposals and received high marks for institutional capabilities, commitment and support.

Dorsey is a globally known cancer researcher who performs most of her experiments in the Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory in Carver Hall at GSU. Over the years, she has trained many biology students through internships, while her research activities have provided a strong platform for toxicogenomics at GSU.

ENDOWED CHAIR OF MATHEMATICS USES EXTENSIVE RESEARCH BACKGROUND TO DEVELOP PREPARED STUDENTS

Grambling State University Endowed Chair of Mathematics Dr. Anjan Biswas sees himself as a connector searching to forge strong relationships with his students while also focusing on research and publishing.

Dr. Biswas, who has published thousands of papers and articles joined the GSU Department of Mathematics last year after previously serving on the faculties of Alabama A&M. Biswas earned his MA and Ph.D. degree in Applied Mathematics from the University of New Mexico and completed his postdoctoral studies at the University of Colorado-Boulder.

His current research interest is in Mathematical Photonics in which he concentrates on soliton perturbation theory, quasi-stationary solitons, quasi-particle theory, variational principle as well as semi-inverse variational principle that are all applicable to the study of optical solitons.

“I see my role as trying to help put Grambling State University on the mathematical map through my publishing, and hopefully through future publications from some of our students,” Biswas said. “We want people to know all this kind of research is being done at Grambling State University, and it’s the published papers that make that happen."

Biswas said a chance to concentrate more on research was a big reason why he jumped on the opportunity when offered the endowed professor at Grambling State.

“Teaching was a big part of my earlier positions, so much so to the degree that it made it hard to delve into research as much as I do here,” Biswas said. “I teach two classes here at Grambling State and the rest is all research, which has helped me to produce more publications.

“And I’m looking for students who want to be excited about being involved. I supervised senior projects for four different students while I was at Alabama A&M and all their papers were published in doctoral journals. So, I’m looking for those kinds of students at Grambling State, where I can supervise them and help them publish their research, too.”

Dr. Biswas said his prolific publishing isn’t about presenting his research to students and fellow educators, but also to help Grambling State University become recognized as a leading university in the field of mathematics.

FULL STORY

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT GARNERS $2M DOE GRANT TO SUPPORT

HUB

The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at Grambling State University (GSU) was named as a recipient of a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education that will benefit university students in need of childcare while they attend classes.

Known as the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) grant — was awarded to GSU to develop comprehensive support strategies for student parents, including childcare services.

“Grambling [State], not unlike many other institutions, is seeing a consistent rise in the number of older and intergenerational families — grandparents, parents, and grandchildren) as a part of the campus community,” said Professor Terry Matthews, Project Director and Chair of GSU’s Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. “This grant award will allow the University to provide additional opportunities and services for these students and significantly enhance their pathway to graduation.”

Grambling State’s CCAMPIS project will undertake three major initiatives over the course of the four-year grant. These include providing subsidized childcare for 42 eligible GSU students with dependent children at the new GSU Child Development Center; establishing a Parent Resource Hub for all GSU student parents, including a Student Parent Task Force; and supporting accreditation and licensing of future early childhood education professionals.

According to Theodore Callier, Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs, the university has received several recent grants awarded to GSU faculty and staff.

“This CCAMPIS grant represents a major investment in GSU’s strategic plan and the U.S. Department of Education’s continued commitment to student success,” Callier said.

The grant, which began recently, is scheduled to continue through September 2027.

Carol Alexander-Lewis, who on Jan. 8, 2024, will become interim director of the GSU Childcare Center to be created by this funding, said receiving the grant will help strengthen the university’s Department of Family & Consumer Sciences.

"They’ll have that real-life lab space to interact with young children as they would when they enter the field. That’s going to be a great opportunity for the students at the university. It will help student parents at the university because there will be a space on campus for them while they’re in class to bring their children to receive quality childcare services. And that’s another great opportunity for the university.”

“This will allow the university to service student parents while also allowing the university to implement or develop what will essentially be a learning laboratory for Grambling’s FCS students,” Alexander-Lewis said. “It will function as a lab space for them to perform their student teaching, their practicums, and internships — those field experiences — at the university itself.”

“I sort of equate it to nursing students visiting hospitals. They’ll have that real-life lab space to interact with young children as they would when they enter the field. That’s going to be a great opportunity for the students at the university. It will help student parents at the university because there will be a space on campus for them while they’re in class to bring their children to receive quality childcare services. And that’s another great opportunity for the university.”

Alexander-Lewis said she is especially proud of the childcare ecosystem that will be created at GSU.

“You’ll have GSU students working with the children of fellow students,” she said. “You’ll have GSU professors working with those students learning the field. And when all of that works together functionally as it should, it’s very beneficial to the institution.”

“I’m just happy I’ll get the opportunity to help see it exist. I’ve actually had the opportunity to serve as a director for the type of center that the funding GSU is receiving will make happen. I’ve seen how it works and seen how valuable it is, so I’m just excited to see Grambling receive this opportunity to participate in such a beneficial program.”

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AWARDED $50,000 GOOGLE GRANT TO RESEARCH POST QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY

As part of Google’s growing efforts to support innovation in academia, the Grambling University Foundation was awarded an unrestricted gift of $50,000 to help fund research efforts being conducted by Grambling State University Computer Science and Digital Technologies Department Head Dr. Bharat Rawal.

Specifically, the funding is to be used toward Dr. Rawal’s efforts to conduct research of post quantum cryptographic systems.

“Large quantum computers have the potential to break many cryptographic systems, e.g., Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA), Diffie-Hellman key exchange, and the Elliptical Curve Cryptosystem,” Dr. Rawal said. “Researchers from academia, industries and government agencies are aware of this threat and National Institutes of Standard (NIST) is preparing a set of approved encryption and signature schemes that are not susceptible to these attacks by quantum computers, the so-called Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC). The task of substituting older encryption and signature schemes raises a number of questions, to which there are not yet clear answers.”

“Our students and faculty will have an opportunity for handson experience in next-generation cryptography,” Dr. Rawal said. “This research will strengthen data privacy, reduce risks of data breaches, and increase user confidence in cloud services. This research will help GSU in developing new advanced cybersecurity courses and curriculum.”

“The major challenge with new cryptosystems is that they involve very complex mathematics with the majority of them being lattice-based algebra. In this research project, we are

interested in investigating the transition to PQC and effect on existing networks, the approved PQC schemes by (NIST), and understanding the likely path to an adaptation of PQC.”

Dr. Rawal said the benefit for GSU Computer Science and Digital Technologies students comes in the fact that the study of post quantum cryptography impact on cloud security research can have a significant impact on improving the security of cloud computing environments, which are critical for businesses and individuals alike.

“Our students and faculty will have an opportunity for hands-on experience in next-generation cryptography,” Dr. Rawal said. “This research will strengthen data privacy, reduce risks of data breaches, and increase user confidence in cloud services. This research will help GSU in developing new advanced cybersecurity courses and curriculum.”

He also said funding is very important for GSU’s Department of Computer Science and Digital Technologies and could help open new doors in the research process being conducted at the university.

“Because teaching remains a main focus and we have little support and resources for research, today’s definition of teaching at higher education institutions is not only the delivery of knowledge but also creating the knowledge,” Dr. Rawal said. “This funding will support groundbreaking research in uncovering new knowledge in the Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and issue of digital certificates to safeguard confidential information, give people, devices, and applications distinct digital identities, and enable secure end-to-end interactions that are governed by public key infrastructure.”

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT AND GRAMBLING STATE SIGN MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ESTABLISHING GUARANTEED INTERVIEW PROGRAM WITH SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a Guaranteed Interview Program (GIP) between Louisiana State University Health Shreveport (LSUHS) School of Graduate Studies and Grambling State University (GSU) was signed at Grambling State University December 1, 2023.

The MOU represents the desire of both parties to increase the number of African American students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Louisiana who apply to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Graduate Studies. The goal is for these students to subsequently be accepted for admission and graduate with a Master of Science degree or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree from one of the six doctoral programs offered at LSUHS.

“We are excited to add this partnership to the existing list of graduate schools that contribute to dynamic and enriching educational access in Louisiana for students at Grambling State University.”

“The Memorandum of Understanding with the LSU Health Shreveport School of Graduate Studies is crucial for fostering collaboration and enhancing academic opportunities for advanced degrees,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot. “We are excited to add this partnership to the existing list of graduate schools that contribute to dynamic and enriching educational access in Louisiana for students at Grambling State University.”

“The opportunity to pursue further graduate study in the healthcare industry area will be attractive for our undergraduate students,” said Dr. Obadiah Simmons, Interim Executive Director of the Office of Graduate Studies. “The partnership will also provide opportunities for GSU’s graduate programs to engage in collaborative ventures with LSU. We’re excited about the possibilities that await us through this partnership.”

GRAMBLING STATE POLICE DEPARTMENT AWARDED $400,000 DOJ GRANT FOR WOMEN’S SVU PROGRAM

The Grambling State University Police Department (GSUPD) was awarded a $400,000 grant to establish a comprehensive, community approach to combat domestic violence, dating, and other violence against women.

Entitled the Grambling State University (GSUPD) Special Victims Unit (SVU) for Prevention & Advocacy Program, the project will be carried out through the university’s Police Department.

The grant was one of 52 awarded from the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) initiative, totaling nearly $22 million nationwide. The grant will be overseen by GSU Chief of Police Rodney Demery, who said that activities involving grant funding will begin right away.

Through the grant, GSUPD will: create a coordinated community response team to oversee all planning and implementation activities; provide prevention programming, including bystander intervention and ongoing prevention activities to all students on domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking; provide ongoing training to all campus law enforcement on how to effectively respond to these crimes; provide access to 24-hour confidential victim services and advocacy; and conduct ongoing training for all personnel in the campus resolution process.

Program activities through the grant will begin this month and will continue through September 2026.

GRAMBLING STATE RECEIVES HBCU NUTRITION HUB DESIGNATION, $25,000 GRANT TO ADDRESS FOOD INSECURITY

Grambling State University (GSU) staff endeavor daily to serve the whole student. That means providing resources that serve every need, including food insecurity. The goal has become more attainable thanks to a $25,000 grant from No Kid Hungry, a national campaign overseen by Share Our Strength, a nonprofit working to solve problems of hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world that has recognized the institution as an HBCU Nutrition Hub.

The funding will be used to support existing food access initiatives, create sustainable solutions through collaboration, expand reach and impact, support enrollment in federal food assistance programs, and promote access to nutritious meals for children through meal programs.

TURNER CONSTRUCTION BUILDS NEW RELATIONSHIP WITH ENGINEERING

TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT, DONATES

$73,000 TOWARD

SCHOLARSHIPS

Grambling State University’s Department of Engineering Technology isn’t only about building bridges, roadways, and the like.

It’s also about building relationships with not only its students but also its alumni, and one such connection paid off in a big way with a donation of $73,000 from Turner Construction for scholarships and other expenses.

Turner is a North America-based, international construction services company with a staff of more than 10,000 employees, the company completes $15 billion of construction on 1,500 projects each year. It plans, designs, and delivers building projects of all types and sizes — schools and hospitals, stadiums and museums, airports, data centers, offices, and more — throughout North America and in 30 countries around the world.

Fortunately, Turner Procurement Director Chris Compton is a 2005 engineering graduate from GSU more than ready and willing to help give back to his university.

“Grambling is near and dear to my heart,” Compton said. “Not only am I an alumnus, but my parents are alumni and I have a younger brother who is a GSU alumnus as well.”

“Turner

has a big initiative for HBCUs and other universities,” Compton said. “Especially with HBCUs, they’re working to try and give back, especially with engineering departments, to help prepare those students for life after graduation to help them pursue their education in STEM..."

GSU Interim Director of the Department of Engineering Technology

Dr. Edwin Thomas said it was earlier this year that Compton brought up the possibility of Turner Construction making the donation.

“Mr. Compton was the liaison between the Department of Engineering Technology and Turner Construction,” Dr. Thomas said. “During the spring 2023 semester, he approached me and proposed the idea of his company donating funds to aid our students with scholarship assistance. For us in the department, it was definitely a welcome proposal. From there we began working toward making it a reality by working with Mr. Brandon Logan, GSU’s Vice President of University Advancement and Innovation.

“This donation certainly makes it possible for engineering technology students to receive financial assistance directly from the department for their education. Students often inquire about scholarships we offer for their major and we have been limited in helping students with tuition assistance. The donation allows the department to recognize and reward deserving students for their hard work toward receiving a degree.”

Compton said that partnering with and helping Historically Black Colleges and Universities is nothing new for Turner Construction.

“Turner has a big initiative for HBCUs and other universities,” Compton said. “Especially with HBCUs, they’re working to try and give back, especially with engineering departments, to help prepare those students for life after graduation to help them pursue their education in STEM or something like that.

“We’ve done this program successfully on Texas Southern’s campus, Sam Houston’s campus, North Carolina A&T’s campus, and Prairie View’s campus. And with me being the only Grambling State alumni within Turner, we wanted to extend that to GSU as well. So, we talked it over with our higher-ups and we all came to the agreement that since we were doing this at other universities, and because Grambling has an engineering department, we wanted to do the same thing there. That’s how Grambling got on the radar for the scholarship.”

Compton said the $73,000 donated to GSU’s Department of Engineering Technology will fund six scholarships along with some other expenses.

“What we’re going to do is that there are going to be six scholarship award recipients at $11,000 per student with the remaining $7,000 going to the Engineering Department’s National Society of Black Engineers and Society of Women Engineers programs for things like lodging to be able to go to different programs and engineering conventions that the department may have on its calendar,” Compton said.

Compton said establishing the scholarships is only the first step that will strengthen ties between GSU and Turner Construction.

“When we partner with a university, it’s not only scholarships we’re trying to help provide,” Compton said. “We also pick a day or two where we’ll come back to work with students with things like a resume’ writing class where they’ll bring in their resumes and we’ll review them and tell them how they might enhance their resumes. Then we have another session for mock interviews where we bring students in and ask them questions as a potential employer would do.

“And we’ll also have a session where we’ll set up professional headshots for their profile pages to be used on the LinkedIns of the world or something, Then we’ll also set up a panel discussion with myself and a group including maybe some professors and some professionals from outside and speak to the students — and we’re talking all students, this will be open to not just only engineering students.”

GRAMBLING STATE SIGNS MOU WITH GHANA TO OFFER GRADUATE STUDIES IN SPORTS ADMINISTRATION

Grambling State University (GSU) strengthened its international footprint when President Rick Gallot and Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, Registrar of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will bring students from Ghana for graduate studies at GSU.

The initial cohort of students from Ghana will come to study in Grambling State’s graduate program in sports administration. The relationship was established by trips to Ghana by GSU professor Dr. Aaron Livingston and a group of sports administration students. Their trips in recent years to the West African country promoted education, sports, and cultural enrichment by becoming heavily involved in the day-to-day operations of youth sport camps as well as organization and administration of coaching seminars.

“I’m excited about this opportunity,” Walton said addressing the Ghana representatives before the signing of the MOU. “Dr, Livingston has been working on this particular partnership for some time. When I reviewed the mission statement (of the Ghana Board of Trustees), it really was in line with the mission of Grambling State University. You indicate that you really were established to address the qualities in education. Grambling State University was founded for that reason as well.”

-Dr. Connie Walton

“We’ve taken Grambling State students to Ghana three times over the past three years,” Livingston said. “But this has been longer than that in the making. I’ve been to Ghana five times working on these agreements. And I’m actually going over there next month for a recruiting event.”

Livingston said that he hopes the first cohort of students from Ghana will begin studies at the start of Grambling State’s 2024 spring semester.

GRAMBLING STATE STUDENTS TO ‘LEVEL UP’ IN INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY THROUGH ENTERGY, ACCENTURE INTERNSHIP

Entergy and Accenture, a professional services company, partnered for a second year with Grambling State University in Louisiana to develop an innovation and technology workforce of the future through an internship program called Level Up.

Six GSU students participated in the year-long internship and were assigned a specific project as well as a mentor from Entergy. Not only will the program give them hands-on experience working on real-world IT projects at a Fortune 500 company, but it will also help them develop soft skills such as resume writing and interviewing for jobs. They will also build skills in design thinking, storytelling, data visualization and project management.

“Together, we empower students with opportunities and, in doing so, forge a workforce that will shape the world’s tomorrow.”

“The strength of Grambling State University’s partnerships with companies like Accenture and Entergy lies in their transformative ability to illuminate the path to a brighter future,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot. “Together, we empower students with opportunities and, in doing so, forge a workforce that will shape the world’s tomorrow.”

“Young people in the communities we serve are our future teachers, utility workers, and even technology and innovation leaders, and by providing them with real-world experiences through programs like Level Up, we provide real opportunities for success right here in Louisiana,” said Phillip May, Entergy Louisiana president and CEO.

During an initial meeting with company representatives and interns, Michael Rhymes, Entergy chief information officer, welcomed interns to Entergy and provided them information on the internship program, various IT departments at the company and the work they would be participating in.

“Our partnership with Grambling State University and Accenture helps us invest in our community while also building a stronger, more diverse IT workforce for the future,” Rhymes said.

The Level Up program provides students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Serving Institutes an opportunity to develop skills in innovation and technology and network with those who work in the field. The Level Up program seeks to address the under-representation of minorities in the technology and innovation workforce.

TRAVIS SCOTT AND CACTUS

JACK PARTNER WITH MITCHELL & NESS TO LAUNCH FIRST EVER COLLEGIATE-INSPIRED FEATURING GRAMBLING STATE APPAREL COLLECTION

Cactus Jack, the official brand of multi-platinum, diamond-certified recording artist and style icon Travis Scott, teamed up with digital sports platform Fanatics, leading sports retailer Lids, and Mitchell & Ness to announce a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind collegiate-inspired apparel collection.

The “Jack Goes Back to College” collection brings together collegiate pride and streetwear style, offering a unique selection of headwear and apparel for students across the nation.

The debut collection, designed and produced by Cactus Jack, featured Grambling State University and 27 other universities.

DR. ALICIA ODEWALE SHARES

STORY OF RESILIENCY THROUGH ANTHROPOLOGICAL RESEARCH ON 1921 TULSA RACE MASSACRE

Dr. Alicia Odewale, an anthropologist and professor at the University of Tulsa, visited Grambling State University to share her research on the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre as part of the Disney on the Yard partnership with National Geographic. Highlighting the resilience of Tulsa’s Black community, her work focuses on Greenwood, a thriving Black neighborhood known as "Black Wall Street," which was devastated in less than 24 hours during the massacre. Hundreds were killed, thousands were displaced, and entire blocks were destroyed. Despite the destruction, the survivors and their descendants rebuilt Greenwood, showcasing an inspiring strength and resilience that Odewale’s work seeks to honor.

Dr. Odewale’s research, part of the Tulsa Race Massacre Archaeological Survey, is not limited to studying the violence that Greenwood faced. Instead, she emphasizes stories of survival and perseverance within the community. Using archaeological methods like artifact analysis, oral histories, and site preservation, her research explores how Black Tulsans reclaimed and rebuilt their lives and community, often amid ongoing economic and social adversity.

In her talk, Dr. Odewale highlighted the value of community-centered research in addressing histories of trauma. By involving local residents and descendants of the massacre’s survivors, she ensures that her findings reflect the experiences and voices of those most affected. This approach supports healing, education, and pride for Tulsa’s Black community, presenting Greenwood’s history as one of resilience rather than loss alone.

Dr. Odewale’s work is part of a larger movement to amplify marginalized histories and challenge mainstream narratives that often focus solely on tragedy. Her findings on Greenwood offer a powerful reminder of Black resilience and highlight similar stories that remain untold across the country.

Speaking to Grambling students, Dr. Odewale encouraged them to pursue research that brings light to overlooked stories and supports their communities. Her work illustrates how anthropology and archaeology can be used as tools for recovery, social justice, and celebration of Black heritage. Dr. Odewale’s research offers a fuller picture of American history by honoring Greenwood’s legacy of rebuilding and resistance, serving as a testament to the enduring strength of Black communities.

The Lonnie B. Smith, Jr. Career Fair, presented by the Center for Career and Professional Development, is held each semester and connected nearly 1,000 students with 158 employers, opening doors to future opportunities.

GRAMBLING STATE AND SUSLA SIGN MOU TO CREATE SEAMLESS TRANSFER

PIPELINE FOR ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY MAJORS

Grambling State University (GSU) President Rick Gallot signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between GSU’s Department of Engineering Technology and Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) inside the Grambling Hall Auditorium.

This MOU will serve as an agreement between both institutions to facilitate the articulation of coursework and provide a seamless transfer of SUSLA’s Associate of Applied Science students into GSU’s Department of Engineering Technology to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.

Essentially, the agreement will allow SUSLA students to use course credit from their two-year degree at SUSLA program toward a four-year degree program at GSU.

“The MOU is a way to foster an academic collaboration to join both institution’s electronics and electrical programs in providing a quality education to enrich the educational experience of those students who decide to continue to a four-year college,” said Dr. Edwin Thomas, interim head of GSU’s Department of Engineering Technology.

Grambling State President Rick Gallot said he believes this is only the next step in building a strong partnership with not only SUSLA but with Southern University in Baton Rouge and other institutes of higher learning.

“This is indeed a great occasion to show our partnership in this program, and as we continue to develop not only partnerships with Southern-Shreveport. We’re also, thanks to the work of Dean Warren, working to develop partnerships with (Southern University’s) Baton Rouge campus and the (Southern University) Law Center, and other places as well,” Gallot said.

“Look, we do compete, and don’t forget the Battle of the Bands, we do that every year, too. But the other 363 days that we’re not competing in the Battle of the Bands and the Bayou Classic we have the same role, scope, and mission, and that is to provide education for our students that is important both to Grambling State University and Southern University — in this case, Southern University at Shreveport. We look forward to additional partnerships as we move forward.”

“I too want to echo (the remembrance) of Warner Brown,” Gantt said. “I remember his hard work in the Southern University (at Shreveport) engineering program and the partnerships he worked toward. He wanted to see this happen, so I, too, know that he is smiling down watching this today.”

As Dr. Thomas had previously stated during the signing ceremony, Southern University at Shreveport Chancellor Dr. Aubra Gantt in her remarks remembered and thanked the late Warner Brown, who was born in Columbia, Louisiana, but became a Grambling native in his early childhood, graduating from Grambling Laboratory High School.

Warner obtained a degree in physics from Grambling State University in 1981 and after doing graduate studies at State University of New York in Buffalo, he returned to Grambling to earn his master’s in teaching Natural Sciences from GSU in 2000. Warner taught at SUSLA for 28 years, including serving as head of the Southern-Shreveport Department of Engineering Technology, before his death in 2011 at the age of 51.

FULL STORY

Grambling State University’s financial performance in fiscal year 2024 reflects our dedication to educational excellence, student success, and operational efficiency. With total revenues reaching $126.81 million, generated from diverse sources like student tuition, state and federal grants, and auxiliary income, we have a solid foundation to support essential resources and programs that empower our students and strengthen our campus.

Our $115.73 million in total expenses illustrates our commitment to strategic investments across instruction, institutional support, and essential services, from research and public engagement to campus upkeep and scholarship funding. These priorities keep Grambling State positioned to meet the needs of our students and fulfill our mission.

EXCELLENCE IN ACTION: State of Grambling 2024