Grambling State University Notable Alumni Success Stories

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Grambling State University, a public historically black university located in Grambling, Louisiana, has a rich history of producing successful and influential alumni. From the fields of entertainment, sports, and politics, to education, business, and healthcare, Grambling State University has a long list of notable alumni who have made a significant impact in their respective industries. In this article, we will explore some of the most inspiring success stories of Grambling State University's notable alumni.

Grambling State University: A Legacy of Excellence

Grambling State University was founded in 1901 as the Colored Industrial and Agricultural School, with the primary goal of providing education and vocational training to African Americans in the rural southern United States. Over the years, the university has evolved to become a renowned institution, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional studies. Grambling State University's commitment to academic excellence, research, and community service has earned it a reputation as one of the top historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the country.

Notable Alumni in Entertainment

Grambling State University has a long history of producing talented alumni who have made a name for themselves in the entertainment industry. Some notable examples include:

• Erykah Badu: Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and actress who graduated from Grambling State University in 1995 with a degree in theater arts.
• David Banner: Rapper, actor, and music producer who attended Grambling State University on a full scholarship and graduated in 1996 with a degree in business administration.
• Trina Jeffrie: Actress and model who graduated from Grambling State University in 2001 with a degree in theater arts and has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "Soul Food" and "The Game".

Notable Alumni in Sports

Grambling State University has a rich athletic tradition, with many alumni going on to achieve great success in professional sports. Some notable examples include:

• Doug Williams: Former NFL quarterback who graduated from Grambling State University in 1978 and went on to win Super Bowl XXII with the Washington Redskins.
• Everson Walls: Former NFL cornerback who graduated from Grambling State University in 1981 and played for the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Cleveland Browns.
• Jason Hatcher: Former NFL defensive tackle who graduated from Grambling State University in 2006 and played for the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins.

Notable Alumni in Politics

Grambling State University has a strong tradition of producing alumni who have gone on to make a difference in politics and public service. Some notable examples include:

• Cleo Fields: Former U.S. Representative from Louisiana who graduated from Grambling State University in 1975 with a degree in political science.
• Felicia Fields: Former mayor of Grambling, Louisiana, who graduated from Grambling State University in 1985 with a degree in business administration.
• Geraldine "Gerri" Robinson: Former city councilwoman from Los Angeles, California, who graduated from Grambling State University in 1969 with a degree in education.

Notable Alumni in Education

Grambling State University has a long history of producing talented alumni who have gone on to make a difference in education. Some notable examples include:

• Ralph Slaughter: Former president of Grambling State University who graduated from the university in 1965 with a degree in mathematics and went on to serve as president from 2000 to 2004.
• Martha Dunagin: Former vice president for academic affairs at Grambling State University who graduated from the university in 1975 with a degree in English and went on to serve in various administrative roles.
• Leontyne Price: Former professor of music at Grambling State University who graduated from the university in 1947 with a degree in music and went on to become a renowned opera singer.

Notable Alumni in Business

Grambling State University has a strong tradition of producing talented alumni who have gone on to make a difference in business. Some notable examples include:

• John B. Kimbrough: Former CEO of HBCU Alumni Network who graduated from Grambling State University in 1985 with a degree in business administration.
• Tony Harrison: Former CEO of Coca-Cola Bottling Company of the Southwest who graduated from Grambling State University in 1975 with a degree in business administration.
• Willie Walton: Former CEO of Grambling State University's Small Business Development Center who graduated from the university in 1970 with a degree in business administration.

Notable Alumni in Healthcare

Grambling State University has a strong tradition of producing talented alumni who have gone on to make a difference in healthcare. Some notable examples include:

• Dr. Ruth Simmons: Former president of Brown University who graduated from Grambling State University in 1967 with a degree in French and went on to become a renowned educator and healthcare advocate.
• Dr. Larry D. Sanford: Former director of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals who graduated from Grambling State University in 1975 with a degree in biology.
• Dr. Karen Thurman: Former chief medical officer of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals who graduated from Grambling State University in 1980 with a degree in biology.

Conclusion

Grambling State University's notable alumni success stories serve as a testament to the university's commitment to academic excellence, research, and community service. From entertainment and sports to politics, education, business, and healthcare, Grambling State University's alumni have made a significant impact in their respective industries. As the university continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that the legacy of excellence will continue to inspire future generations of students and alumni.