History of the Honors College
The Honors College was established in 1990 in response to a verbal directive from
the third president of Grambling State University, Dr. Joseph B. Johnson. President
Johnson selected Dr. Helen L. Richards-Smith to plan and implement the Earl Lester
Cole Honors College with the designated title as Associate Dean of Academic Administration
and Director of the Honors College. The assignment was given, Fall 1989, the Inauguration
was held Fall, 1990 and the Charter Graduating Members of the Earl Lester Cole Honors
College was Spring, 1994. After the Honors College was established, Dr. Helen Richards-
Smith became the first dean of the Honors College. When she retired, Dr. Richards-Smith
was named Dean Emeritus of the Honors College. Dr. Ellen D. Smiley became the second
Dean to serve the Earl Lester Cole Honors College.
Dr. Helen Richards-Smith
Contact:
Dr. Ellen D. Smiley, Dean
Earl Lester Cole Honors College
Grambling State University
GSU Box 4208
Grambling, Louisiana 71245
(318)274-2114
smileye@gram.edu
Dr. Steve A. Favors, Faculty
Earl Lester Cole Honors College
Grambling State University
GSU Box 4208
Grambling, Louisiana 71245
(318)274-2303
favorss@gram.edu
Miss Jackie Newsome, Administrative Assistant
Earl Lester Cole Honors College
Grambling State University
GSU Box 4208
Grambling, Louisiana 71245
(318) 274-2114
newsomej@gram.edu
