Grambling State News

Board officers elected for upcoming year

GRAMBLING, La. – January 21, 2021 – The Grambling University Foundation Board recently announced the appointment of two new members and held elections for Board Officers. Juan Cunningham of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Gregory Jones of Montgomery, Alabama, were chosen to join the board.

The board also voted on the following officers for the upcoming year: Dr. Richard Rayford, Chair; Attorney Latoya Merritt, Vice Chair; Dr. Adrian Butler, Treasurer; Mrs. Monica Kennedy Jones, Secretary.

Cunningham, who retired from Norfolk Southern as vice president of Human Resources, has more than 40 years of experience in leadership, planning, strategy and budgeting. His career and retirement have been marked with a spirit of service. The Grambling State graduate has been active with his fraternity, Omega Phi Psi, in community volunteerism projects since his retirement.

Jones is president and CEO of The Jones Group. With over 25 years of leadership experience in government affairs, business development, and political advocacy, The Jones Group has represented a variety of corporations, industry and professional associations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Current and former clients include Abbott Laboratories, American Heart Association, Apple, Draft Kings, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, National Association of Black Automotive Suppliers, Pfizer, Alabama State University, and Tuskegee University.

Outgoing Chair David Aubrey was recognized for his many contributions. During his four-year tenure as chairman, the board helped grow the Foundation and Grambling State’s Division of Advancement, including the hiring of an investment firm, securing funding for stadium improvements, growth in alumni and corporate giving, and “0” audit findings.  He will remain as a board member.

“I am thankful for the efforts made by Aubrey and other officers to move the institution forward,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot. “Their work laid the foundation for a brighter future for Grambling State.”

The Grambling University Foundation is a public non-profit organization established to provide financial assistance to Grambling State University.

For more information, please contact  mediarelations@gram.edu.

About Grambling State University

Grambling State University, located in Grambling, Louisiana, is a historically black university founded in 1901 that combines the academic strengths of a major university with the benefits of a small college. This combination enables students to grow and learn in a serene and positive environment. The 590-acre campus offers 43 undergraduate and graduate academic programs. A member of the University of Louisiana System, Grambling State University has been accredited by 13 accrediting associations and holds accreditations in all programs required by the Louisiana Board of Regents. With a longstanding tradition of excellence, Grambling State University continues to emphasize the value and importance of each student, exemplified by our motto: Where Everybody Is Somebody.