GRAMBLING, La. – May 25, 2021- Dr. Rudolph Ellis has been named interim Vice President of Student Affairs at Grambling State University (GSU). He will move into the interim position previously held by Dr. Guorjoine Wade.
Dr. Ellis currently serves as director of GSU’s Office of Retention. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in English education and his master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. His doctorate degree is in developmental education with a focus on curriculum and instructional design and student personnel and services.
Ellis has taught for over 15 years and has worked to provide student success, retention and persistence. He has served in a variety of leadership roles including Associate Director of Campus Living and Housing and Associate Dean of Student Services. He is also involved in several outreach programs within the community. As an alumnus of Grambling State University, Ellis said he believes in “giving back and making a difference in the lives of students at the university.”
His interests include student success and retention, social media and education, living learning communities and male identity development in higher education.
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he said “Satisfaction in success lies more in the effort and not solely in the attainment.” Ellis said his aim is to make the student experience meaningful and intentional as the university continues the search for the new Vice President of Student Affairs.
GSU President Rick Gallot said Ellis has a heart for student success and retention that he will carry into his new interim role at the university.
“Dr. Ellis brings to this position a commitment to serve students,” he said. “He works to ensure that they not only graduate but become responsible, contributing members of the community.”
Dr. Wade, a Grambling State alumnus, served as the university’s Associate Vice President and Dean of Students before taking on the interim vice-president role. He has taken a position with another university.
“Grambling State has always been a place whose mission is to develop the next generation of leaders,” said President Gallot. “Dr. Wade is a nationally recognized leader in digital student engagement and we are confident he will represent us well as he continues to advance in his career.”
About Grambling State University
Grambling State University, located in Grambling, Louisiana, is a historically black university founded in 1901. The University has been accredited by 13 accrediting associations and holds accreditations in all programs required by the Louisiana Board of Regents. The 590-acre campus offers 43 undergraduate and graduate academic programs. Grambling State University is a member of the University of Louisiana System. For more information, visit .