In a unanimous decision, the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System has named Dr. Martin Lemelle as the next president of Grambling State University.
“This is our story. This is the Grambling State University story,” expressed Dr. Lemelle, addressing the board, the Gram Fam, students, alumni, family, friends, and supporters.
Following a rigorous selection process, the Grambling Presidential Search Committee identified three finalists, including Dr. Gregory Ford and Dr. Monica Williams, alongside Dr. Lemelle. The final decision came after interviews with six semifinalists held on Grambling’s campus earlier this month.
Rick Gallot, who transitioned from the Grambling presidency to assume the role of UL System President and CEO earlier this year, expressed confidence in Dr. Lemelle’s leadership abilities. “Dr. Lemelle’s appointment as the 11th president of Grambling State University guarantees a leader well-prepared on day one,” stated Gallot. “I am confident that under President Lemelle’s leadership, Grambling State University will continue to thrive with its best days yet to come.”
Dr. Lemelle brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A 2006 graduate and former student government association president of Grambling, he most recently served as the executive vice president & chief financial officer at Maryland Institute College of Art. Prior to that, he held the position of executive vice president & chief operating officer at Grambling from 2016 to 2021.
Negotiations for Dr. Lemelle’s start date will be conducted by Gallot and Board Chair Dr. Jimmy Clarke.