GRAMBLING, La. – December 8, 2021 – Grambling State University mass communications senior Jasmine Franklin was honored today with a special and surprise check presentation by AT&T.

Franklin was recently selected by AT&T as 1 of 25 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) students for the Inaugural Dream in Black Rising Future Makers Class.

“Thank you all so much for gathering here today. I am overwhelmed and extremely honored,” Franklin said during the surprise presentation in the Atrium of the Black & Gold room. “I am still in shock. Grambling has meant a lot to me as I am a third-generation Gramblinite.

“I can’t thank AT&T enough for seeing something in me, and the hard work I’ve been putting in to award me $5,000. I’m so honored to be a part of the inaugural class. This will open up so many other doors for myself and for other future Grambling students who will be in the same room next year.”

AT&T Dream in Black Rising Future Makers highlights future leaders of tomorrow. The initiative is about HBCU students innovating, influencing, driving culture and creating change.

“I congratulate you on this outstanding honor,” Grambling State University President Richard J. Gallot, Jr. said. “Jasmine has worked really hard in ways most people had not seen. I want to thank AT&T for continuing to be such amazing partners with Grambling State University.”

AT&T Regional Vice President and alumnus David J. Aubrey, along with Vice President and General Manager Cara Fields presented Franklin with the check presentation along with other gifts.

“We are so proud of all that you’ve had done and what you’ve been doing,” AT&T Regional Vice President and alumnus David Aubrey said.

Franklin also received an iPhone 13, a Rising Future Makers letterman jacket, and a glass trophy award.