Mardi Gras translated from French means “Fat Tuesday.” It became a legal holiday in Louisiana in 1875. Its roots came from festivals in ancient Rome that were adopted by Christians as a celebration before Lent (between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday), a period of fasting for 40 days. Traditionally, Christians make sacrifices and “give up” something during Lent. Usually, I give up chocolate (that’s really hard for me) and eat only fish or vegetables on Fridays. This year I’m asking all Gramblinites to “Give Up a Meal for Grambling” during Lent.

GSU needs your donations because the public dollars from the State of Louisiana are getting smaller. Most of us eat out at least once per week; lunch, dinner, even breakfast. Any amount you pay for any meal will be greatly appreciated. You can give by mailing a check to the President’s Office payable to Grambling State University; or on our website at: www.gram.edu and click the donate button under Connect to GSU.

Your contribution helps us raise funds from other donors; knowing that our Alumni and Friends give to Grambling; even though they pay state and federal taxes. Please join me to “Give Up a Meal for Grambling” today!