Forgiveness amount expected to total 1.5 million  

GRAMBLING, La. – August 1, 2021 – Grambling State University (GSU) will forgive student debt for those with current semester balances from spring 2020 through summer 2021.  

“GSU continues to invest in ensuring that its students receive a high-quality education that propels their economic mobility,” said GSU Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Martin Lemelle. “Utilizing funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, we are supporting our students’ current educational goals while also investing in their long-term success. “ 

Canceling the debt means more than helping students over a financial hurdle, he said. 

 “The impact of this debt relief goes beyond a financial statement; It will impact the entirety of the student experience from mental health to retention and graduation,” Lemelle said. 

In order to be eligible for forgiveness, the debt balance must be the obligation of the student and not a third party (e.g., students funded by foreign government entities or veteran affairs). The amount of debt to be forgiven is expected to total $1.5 million. 

Grambling State University joins a growing number of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that have canceled student debt in recent months. The COVID-19 pandemic has created financial and emotional challenges for students and families, so colleges are forgiving debt to help students complete their education.

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 gram.edu.