Alana Ward Robinson to Receive Honorary Doctorate at Spring 2025 Commencement
GRAMBLING, La. – Grambling State University will award an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to distinguished alumna and trailblazing executive Alana Ward Robinson during its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, to be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 9, in the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.
Alana Ward Robinson is a transformative technology strategist and award-winning executive with a distinguished record of leading enterprise-wide innovation across the public and private sectors. With deep expertise in emerging technologies, she has reimagined operating models, built high-performing tech organizations, and driven measurable outcomes across Fortune 500 companies and mission-driven institutions.
“Alana Ward Robinson’s journey is a testament to the power of preparation, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose,” said Grambling State University President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. “Her work at the intersection of technology, equity, and leadership has not only shaped industries—it has opened doors for generations to follow. As a Grambling State graduate, she exemplifies what it means to carry forward the mission of this institution with excellence and intentionality.”
As Founder and CEO of Robinson Group Consulting (RGC) since 2004, Robinson leads a national practice specializing in interim CIO leadership, enterprise technology strategy, and digital transformation. RGC’s diverse client base includes global supply chains, healthcare payers, financial institutions, housing authorities, nonprofits, and universities. Her work consistently bridges strategic vision with operational excellence.
Robinson launched her career at IBM Corporation, ultimately managing the Public Sector P&L across multiple states. She then held senior leadership roles at the Public Service Company of Colorado, PACE Membership Warehouse Club, Coors Brewing Company, Sara Lee Hosiery, and RR Donnelley, where she drove ERP innovation and multimillion-dollar efficiency gains.
A civic leader and governance expert, Robinson has served on numerous boards, including the World Food Program (IT Advisory Council), Brighter Horizon Foundation (Chair), Girls Inc. of Chicago (Secretary), the National Hospice Foundation, and the African American Experience Fund of the National Parks Foundation. She is a founding member of the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) and an active supporter of inclusive leadership and next-gen tech talent.
Her honors include the Girls Inc. She Shines Lifetime Achievement Award, ITSMF President’s Award, Grambling State University Alumni Beacon Award, CIO Review’s Top 20 Technology Consulting Providers, and recognition from the Financial Times Agenda 100, among others.
Robinson holds a B.A. in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science from Grambling State University and is an alumna of Harvard University’s Advanced Executive Management Program, where she was elected Class President. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she resides in Irving, TX with her husband, E. O’Neal Robinson, also a Grambling State alumnus.
Robinson’s honor will be conferred during the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, which also features a keynote address by actress, author, and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown. For more information, visit gram.edu/graduation.