Grambling State News

Grambling State University remains committed to removing financial barriers and empowering student success, awarding $267,968 in donor-funded scholarships to 264 students for the Spring 2025 semester. This milestone builds upon a record-breaking year, with the university surpassing its $500,000 scholarship goal for 2024-2025 — a 102% increase in total funds distributed and a 131% rise in the number of awards granted compared to the previous academic year. With 7,541 applications submitted, the GSU Scholarship Committee worked diligently to review applications and strategically allocate funding to maximize impact.

“Every dollar dedicated to our students helps unlock their potential, fuel their success, and shape their future,” said Brandon A. Logan, Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation. “With 42% of our students being first-generation and over 95% relying on some form of aid, we recognize the critical role scholarships play in transforming lives. Our mission is to become the #1 HBCU in social and economic mobility, and these investments directly empower our students to achieve upward financial and career success.”

Some of the most impactful awards this semester came from the Hunt Forest Products, LLC Endowed Scholarship, Joel L. Fletcher, Jr. and Ralph W.E. Jones, Sr. Scholarship, Rick Gallot Endowed Scholarship, The Shade Room First Generation Endowed Scholarship, and the Willie D. Davis Endowed Scholarship, each contributing $9,000 in scholarships to deserving students.

Scholarship Recipients Share Their Transformative Experiences

For many students, receiving a scholarship is more than just financial relief — it represents hope, recognition, and a renewed commitment to their academic journey.

“As an international student with a partial scholarship and a $3,000 deficit, receiving this support has been life-changing,” said Theophilus Mensah, a freshman management major from Kumasi, Ghana. “It has significantly reduced my financial burden, allowing me to focus on my education and career aspirations. This scholarship is a symbol of hope and encouragement, reminding me that my dreams are valid and achievable.”

Tamia Curtis, a sophomore criminal justice major from Ruston, Louisiana, echoed this sentiment. “After receiving this award, I felt that my academic efforts had been noticed — I’ve been working hard to exceed my own expectations. The financial assistance will allow me to focus more on my studies and become more engaged on campus, including joining student organizations.”

These scholarships not only lighten financial strain but also empower students to remain engaged, persist, and achieve their academic goals—a direct testament to the power of philanthropy in higher education.

Expanding Philanthropic Reach & Securing Student Success

This semester’s awards surpassed the university’s goal, marking a record-breaking year of scholarship support. Compared to Fall 2024, when $232,500 in endowed scholarships were distributed, Grambling State continues to increase scholarship resources year over year.

“Grambling State remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate financial barriers and open doors for our students,” said President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. “We are deeply grateful to our investors, whose generosity continues to transform lives. Their commitment not only supports individual student success but also strengthens the legacy of excellence that defines Grambling State.”

Endowments: A Lasting Impact on Grambling State’s Future

Endowments serve as a cornerstone of GSU’s long-term strategy for financial sustainability and student support. Unlike one-time gifts, endowments generate investment income while preserving the principal, ensuring perpetual scholarship funding for future generations.

The Grambling University Foundation plays a critical role in managing these funds, ensuring that donor contributions are maximized for growth and longevity.

“Endowed scholarships allow donors to create a lasting legacy while directly shaping the future of our students,” said Logan. “With a 3% payout of endowment value this year, these funds are actively providing critical scholarship support while preserving principal for future generations.”

Join the Legacy – Invest in Grambling State Students

As Grambling State continues to break barriers and expand access to education, the support of investors remains crucial. Every gift — whether establishing a new endowment, contributing to an existing scholarship, or making an annual commitment fuels student potential and strengthens Grambling State University’s institutional excellence.

To learn more about how donor-funded scholarships and endowments are transforming lives, visit www.gram.edu/endowments.