Grambling State University President Appointed to NCAA Committee on Access, Opportunity, and Impact
GRAMBLING, La. – The conversation around equity in college athletics has long been shaped by those with the power to be heard. On September 1, 2025, that conversation will include the voice of Grambling State University President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr., who has been appointed to serve a three-year term on the NCAA Committee on Access, Opportunity, and Impact.
For a university that has helped shape generations of student-athletes with limited resources but limitless determination, the appointment is more than ceremonial—it’s a meaningful affirmation of Grambling State’s place in national discourse.
The committee was formed to address deep-rooted disparities in intercollegiate athletics, from leadership pipelines to institutional support. It works to expand visibility, opportunity, and influence for schools and individuals that have historically stood at the margins of power.
“Serving on this committee is a responsibility I take seriously,” said Dr. Lemelle. “It is a chance to help ensure that institutions like Grambling—rich in legacy and driven by purpose—are part of shaping a system that recognizes talent, builds character, and opens doors. I look forward to advocating for pathways that honor the full potential of every student-athlete and athletics leader.”
While not a former student-athlete himself, Dr. Lemelle understands what athletics can mean to communities like Grambling—where football fields and track lanes often double as proving grounds for leadership, resilience, and transformation. His work as president reflects that same drive: to widen access, challenge outdated structures, and invest in systems that nurture success.
“Dr. Lemelle is an ideal representative for this national committee,” said Dr. Charles McClelland, Commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference. “He brings vision, integrity, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our institutions. His leadership ensures that the SWAC’s values and contributions are firmly represented in conversations that shape the future of college athletics.”
Grambling State University continues to rise in visibility and momentum under Dr. Lemelle’s leadership, with national recognition in academic innovation, student success, and athletic development. His appointment to the NCAA committee is both a nod to that progress and a signal that HBCUs like Grambling will not just participate in the conversation about the future of college sports—they will help lead it.
“President Lemelle leads with purpose and precision. His service on this committee will elevate Grambling’s voice and ensure that HBCUs remain central to shaping policies that affect our athletes and institutions,” said Dr. Trayvean Scott, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics at Grambling State University. “We’re proud to have one of our own influencing the national conversation.”
Dr. Lemelle’s service on the NCAA Committee on Access, Opportunity, and Impact will continue through 2028. He will play a key role in driving national strategies that expand leadership pipelines, elevate underrepresented voices, and enhance institutional support for student-athletes.
This appointment further affirms Grambling State University’s standing as a leader among HBCUs and a driving force for change within the NCAA and beyond.