Office of the President
On Saturday, October 10, 2015, I received an early birthday present by welcoming 2,200 incredible students to High School Day at Grambling State University. The event was a mind-blowing experience to see so many high-quality, high-character students join our family as they shared their plan to join Grambling as future students. Our goal from day one has been to open up the floodgates and attract more students with high aspirations and achievements, and to expand the pipeline for an emerging cohort of new student entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, counselors, practitioners, educators, doctors, lawyers and leaders.
As I started my day early at Grambling, I knew the sun would be shining! As I walked to the end of the driveway to pick up the morning newspaper, I stood smiling as I saw a motorcade of buses roaring onto our beautiful campus. I thought, “WOW.” We have on our campus the embodiment of excellence! Grambling’s very lifeblood is our innovative and impassioned ability to retain and attract our current students and cohorts of new students wanting to become a “G.”
In thinking about this important event, it would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of our staff at Grambling State University. Many people deserve credit, but let me start by thanking Mr. LaTari Fleming and Mrs. Patricia Jenkins-Hutcherson and their staff. I am also grateful to our Student Government Association leadership and the many students who stepped up to the plate and poured their energy and talent into this day of wonderment.
The pageantry was fabulous with unique colors, sounds and awesome displays of unique talent by many. While the names and faces are etched in my memories, I am humbled by their professionalism and esprit de corps. As the band played, they were accompanied by our cheerleaders, the Orchesis dancers, Miss Grambling and the Royal Court, representation from academic departments, and a host of other important offices, divisions and units that embody this great and venerable institution.
After a number of speakers, songs, performances and insightful information about the many academic offerings at the university, it was onto Eddie G. Robinson Stadium for some exciting football action. The Grambling G-Men won their fourth-straight SWAC Conference football game en route to what we hope to be another SWAC Conference Championship.
At the conclusion of the day, ALL had a marvelous time, and the entire university family impressed some wonderful high school students. Etched in their memories is the feel, impression and embrace that only Grambling State University, “Where Everybody is Somebody,” can provide – a clear focus on their goals, dreams and ambitions as they return home with Grambling on their minds.
Again, thanks to our alumni for working so hard, and thanks to our future Gramblinites who will help us rejuvenate and reinvigorate our beloved university. The “GramFam” looks forward to seeing all of these students in the fall. May God bless Grambling State University and all who enter its hallowed grounds.
Sincerely,
Willie D. Larkin, Ph.D.
President
“ONE GRAMBLING: Honoring History, Keeping Promises and Fulfilling Dreams.”