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GUNAA
Newsletter
October 2026
| | Grambling University National Alumni Association | | |
JOIN GUNAA!
Help us FIND and ACTIVATE our ALUMNI
First year is FREE for Recent Graduates!
Pay $70 annual dues online with $0 fees - Click here or SCAN QR Code
2027 DUES Reminder: It's time to pay your 2027 dues! As of October 1st, all membership payments will be applied to the 2027 term unless you specifically designate it for the current year.
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A Message from Our President
Dr. Tammy Richardson
College of Business -1991
Dear GramFam,
What an incredible Homecoming celebration! One of the highlights was the dedication of our newly installed brick walkway and monument signage at the Grambling University National Alumni Center. This project represents far more than bricks and mortar. It symbolizes our collective commitment to strengthening the foundation of our National Alumni Association and creating a lasting tribute to those who have helped shape our beloved institution.
To every alumnus, family member, friend, donor, and volunteer who contributed to this initiative, THANK YOU! Your generosity and commitment made this vision a reality. As we prepare to launch Phase 2 of our Brick Campaign, I encourage those who have not yet participated to become part of this lasting legacy. Every dollar raised through this initiative is dedicated to the continued improvement of our National Alumni Center and finding multiple streams of income for future student scholarships e.g. RV Park on the 6 acres of adjacent land.
As we enter the final quarter of 2026, our focus remains on building a stronger, more sustainable GUNAA. Throughout this administration, we have emphasized the importance of strengthening our organizational infrastructure to include improving financial stewardship, expanding membership engagement, and modernizing the systems that support our chapters and members.
Our work is not simply about what we accomplish today. It is about creating an organization that will continue to thrive long after our terms of service have ended.
I encourage every member to remain engaged, support your local chapter, recruit fellow alumni, and participate in the initiatives that directly benefit GSU. Membership is more than a financial contribution; it is an investment in our collective future.
As we turn our attention toward the 2026 Bayou Classic in New Orleans, I am excited about another opportunity to celebrate our Grambling pride and reconnect with alumni from across the country. I encourage you to participate in our planned activities, support our alumni marketplace, and consider volunteering during Bayou Classic Weekend.
In the Tiger Spirit,
| | We limited GUNAA 2024 merchandise at a very discounted price, while supplies last! Items can be picked up at the National Office or shipped directly to you (minimal shipping fees apply). Local chapters are encouraged to take advantage of this special opportunity and use the inventory for chapter meeting giveaways, recruiting events, community events, etc. www.gunaa.org/shop PAY: Zeffy | |
GUNAA Celebrations & Member Spotlight
| | | The mission of the Grambling State University Athletics Department is to build on our national reputation of winning championships, graduating student athletes, and developing leaders. Come out and support our teams. Visit all sporting schedules at gsutigers.com | | BAYOU CLASSIC INFORMATION | | Our ticket sales directly IMPACT GSU Student scholarships. Come Party with a PURPOSE! | | |
GUNAA invites you to the ultimate reunion during Bayou Classic Weekend. Join us on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at the Hilton Riverside New Orleans for a night of culture, networking, and classic Grambling spirit. Time: 8pm - 1am
Early Bird pricing will be available through October 31, 2026, but space is limited—especially for VIP access!
Ticket Packages
● General Admission
○ Entry to the Reunion
○ Access to games & Karaoke
○ R&B Bingo participation
○ Cash bar & GUNAA Marketplace access
● VIP Experience
○ Includes everything in General Admission, PLUS:
○ Access to the exclusive Cousins & Cocktails Lounge &
complimentary bites
○ 2 Signature Drink Tickets (VIP Bar only)
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GUNAA Discount Code
Use the following code to receive a discount on your airline travel to the Bayou Classic!
ZQKP761354
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STAY TUNED
for the
DATE/TIME/LOCATIONS
of the many
BAYOU CLASSIC
WATCH PARTIES
to be hosted by
GUNAA ALUMNI CHAPTERS ACROSS THE U.S. !!!
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The 53rd Annual Bayou Classic presented by Procter & Gamble returns to New Orleans Thanksgiving weekend, November 26–28, 2026, at the Caesars Superdome. Tickets for the Bayou Classic football game and the Battle of the Bands & Greek Show are now available by calling GSU Ticket office or going to www.mybayouclassic.com, offering fans an unforgettable weekend of football, music, tradition, and Tiger pride.
Grambling fans will be seated primarily on the East Side (Sections 101 - 128) of the Superdome, while the World Famed Tiger Marching Band will perform on the North End Zone Side (Section 111 -113) during the Battle of the Bands.
Alumni and supporters are encouraged to secure their tickets early and begin making plans to join the GramFam in New Orleans for one of HBCU culture's most celebrated events.
| | GUNAA HOTEL ROOM BLOCK at the HILTON RIVERSIDE IS SOLD OUT! | | |
HERE ARE ADDITIONAL HOTEL BLOCKS sponsored by Bayou Classic -->
Bayou Classic Football game tickets range from $20 to $199 across all seating levels at the Caesars Superdome.
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Battle of the Bands & Greek Show general admission starts at $25, with reserved seating options available. (Prices increase by $10 on event day). GSU Athletics has tickets on sale as follows: 100 Level & 300 Level Reserved Seating: $52'; General Admission (Terrace Level): $27
- Ticket Information is as follows:
| | | Additional seating may become available if reserved tickets are not renewed by the applicable deadlines.
Tim Smith
Associate AD for Ticket Sales & Services
Phone: 318.274.4020
Email: Smithti@gram.edu | QUESTIONS
If you have any questions regarding your account, payment plan, or ticket purchases, please contact the Grambling State Athletics Ticket Office.
Mykayla Mitchell
Director for Ticket Sales & Services
Phone: 318.274.4795
Email: mitchellmyk@gram.edu | | | Private Suite or Bunker Experience | | |
Elevate your Bayou Classic experience in true Grambling State fashion. Whether you prefer the refined comfort of a private suite or the vibrant energy of the bunker level, both options deliver the perfect combination of luxury, exclusivity, and Tiger pride.
PRIVATE SUITE - click Bayou Classic Private Suite
INDIVIDUAL INVESTOR SUITE Ticket ($350+) - click Individual Investor
BUNKER TICKET ($200) - click Bunker Experience
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KICKS BALL
Before Bayou Classic weekend takes center stage, join us for the Fifth Annual Kicks Ball Gala, presented by adidas—an evening of purpose, pride, and fresh kicks in support of Grambling State University students. This signature event brings together style, philanthropy, and GramFam fellowship to benefit the GUF Legacy GAP Scholarship Fund and help Tigers continue their journey toward graduation.
Get Tickets Here
| | Bayou Classic is Seeking Partnerships! | | |
Let's GET READY to head to D.C. in December to cheer on our TIGERS!!!! The 3rd Annual Toyota Chris Paul HBCU Classic will take place Dec. 4-5 at CareFirst Arena. (GRAM HAS BEEN invited every year!!).
Friday Dec. 4
Session 1 - Winston-Salem vs. ClarkATL | VA State vs. W. VA State ;
Session 2 - Hampton vs. FAMU | Grambling vs. Tennessee State
Saturday Dec. 5
Session 1 - 3rd Place (Non-Div. I) | Championship Game (Division I)
Session 2 - FAMU vs. Tennessee State | Hampton vs. Howard
| | Upcoming Events & Activities | | | November
3 | Scholarship Committee
7:15pm CST
1st TUESDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 817 7207 1148
Passcode: 704664 | | November
10 | Government Relations Committee
8:00pm CST
2nd TUESDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 818 2769 8484
Passcode: 118583 | | November
9 | Membership Committee
8:00pm CST
2nd MONDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 872 1792 5810
Passcode: 072929 | | | | November
17 | Social Committee
7:30pm CST
3rd TUESDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 846 0164 7034
Passcode: 166611 | | November
18 | Recruiting/High School Relations Committee
6:30pm CST
3rd WEDNESDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 821 3038 0652
Passcode: 068469 | | November
19 | Young Alumni Committee
7:00pm CST
3rd THURSDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 871 1325 3998
Passcode: 489694 | | November
20 | Awards Committee
6:30pm CST
3rd FRIDAYS
TEAMS Meeting ID: 931 670 196 473 | | | | November
16 | Program Committee
FOR COMMITTEE CHAIRS ONLY
7:30pm CST
3rd MONDAYS
ZOOM Meeting ID: 494 546 9653
Passcode: 966083 | | | Shine the light on your chapter! We encourage all officers, regional representatives, committee chairs, and chapters to contribute content via gunaacommunications@gmail.com | | |
Monroe Ouachita Chapter
A great time was had by all as GramFam gathered for the GSU vs AAMU watch party and Bayou Classic Trophy Roadshow Tour.
Congratulations on the half-time recognition as this chapter donated $15,000 to the GSU Athletic Programs
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Los Angeles Chapter
GRAMFAM represented at the Dorsey High School college fair!
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Windy City Chapter
Chicago, IL
The chapter represented GSU at the Family Centered Educational Agency's (FCEA) Annual College and Career Readiness Fair at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
Alumni gathered in person to reconnect, share ideas, and set the tone for a year focused on engagement, service, and support for GSU under the leadership of President Carol Allen and Vice President Valerie Charles, the chapter is moving forward with a clear message: Same Legacy. Bigger Impact. Meetings are held the last Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM sharp.
Plan to support the scholarship fundraiser!
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DLW Chapter
Houston, TX
Let's fill the Bus from Houston to Grambling!
The chapter continues to have an impact on the lives of the greater HOUSTON students. They spoke to future Grambling students at the Manvel High College Fair.
Be sure to come out and network with GRAMFAM and support the TIGERS as they take on TSU!
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Martha Adams Chapter
Hammond, LA
Get on board the bus to High School Day on November 7th!
A great time was had by all as they boarded the bus to GSU and cheered on the Tigers to victory.
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Metro DFW Chapter
Dallas, TX
Let's Fill the Bus to GSU on High School Day!
Plan to support the DFW chapter as they raise funds in support of scholarships and operations!
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Morehouse Chapter
Bastrop, LA
The chapter continues to impact the lives of local students! Bastrop Junior High School students were presented a donation for workout gear and training equipment.
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Greater Houston Chapter
GramFam was present at the Alief Early College High School to share information about our alma mater.
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St Landy Parish Chapter
Thanks to the support of Attorney Darryl Washington (GramFam and native of Opelousas, LA)!
The chapter will fill this bus with future TIGERS who will get to experience GSU High School Day!
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Southern California Chapter
Los Angeles,CA
Continuing to represent our alma mater in the metro Los Angeles area.
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DeRidder Chapter
DeRidder, LA
The DeRidder Chapter represented Dear Ole Grambling in the Beauregard Parish Fair parade. Jackie Miller, the newest member, allowed the chapter members to ride in his custom designed Grambling SUV.
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Crescent City Chapter
New Orleans, LA
Join us for the Annual Bayou Classic Tailgate as your purchase supports scholarship for students. Click here to Purchase Tickets.
Be sure to purchase your 504 Jersey and Rep the G!
Click here to Purchase
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Metro ATL Chapter
Atlanta, GA
We hope to see all GramFam skating with us on this day!
The GSU vs JSU watch party was well attended as we cheered our TIGERS to victory!
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Mildred S. Jones Chapter
Alexandria, LA
GramFam gathered to increase awareness of the annual Bayou Classic. The Trophy was available for pictures with the public. The public was also able to purchase game day tickets.
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Jackson Parish Chapter
Jonesboro, LA
The annual Fred D. Hearns Golf Classic was a success! We hope to see you at next year's event during homecoming week!
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GUNAA WAS OUTSIDE for our Homecoming!
Our Brick Ceremony was A-M-A-Z-ING! Click here to see the program. We hope you will stop by the National Office and see the signage and bricks. Chairperson: Robert Brown.
NOTE: WE ARE LAUNCHING PHASE II - BY NOVEMBER 1ST!! Be on the lookout for the link to purchase.
| | | | L-R: President Elect, Crystal Sayles; Mr. and Mrs Darrell Hoard; President, Dr. Tammy Richardson | | A special thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Hoard for providing the float in this year’s Homecoming Parade! Thanks to our many GSU student volunteers for decorating the float. | | GUNAA presented gifts to all Distinguished 10 honorees! | GUNAA was a PROUD SPONSOR at the WORLD FAMED Tiger Marching Band Centennial Gala. | | The GUNAA Membership Committee was on-site at Eddie G. Robinson Stadium during Homecoming, connecting with alumni and promoting membership.L-R: Ebony Collinsworh, Vice President Crystal Sayles and Jeanette Perry. | | | |
SPOTLIGHT: Rickey Burton
GUNAA Life Member
Congratulations to Mr. Rickey Burton on receiving his Dr. Arlester Brown Lifetime Achievement Award!
He was announced as the award recipient at the 2026 GUNAA National Convention and recently stopped by the Alumni Center to pick up his well-deserved recognition..
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SPOTLIGHT: Alicia Williams
GUNAA Life Member
Grambling State University has appointed Alicia Williams as Special Assistant for Government Affairs, bringing a longtime public servant, alumna, and University advocate into a role focused on government relations, legislative engagement, and public policy priorities.
Click to read article
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SPOTLIGHT: Freddie Colston
GUNAA Member
GUNAA National Parliamentarian
Our National Parliamentarian is World Famed Alumni 1966- 1971. He is featured in the newly released World Famed Band's interview. Click here to listen.
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SPOTLIGHT: Wilbur Washington
GUNAA Life Member
GUNAA National Financial Secretary
Our National Financial Secretary is being honored by Ignited Light as an Information Systems Analyst Mentor and Community Leader.
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SPOTLIGHT: Daryl Triplett
GUNAA Life Member
Daryl has been selected as an International Ambassador for the 53rd Annual Bayou Classic. He is an amazing visual artist and we CONGRATULATE you GRAMFAM!
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HBCU Impactors
Chairperson: Vinson Primas
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ULS Meeting Summary: October 22 at 10am CST. Click to listen to meeting
Board Actions Impacting GSU included the following:
Athletic Committee
- Grambling State University's request for approval of a contract with Daniel Cabrera, Head Women's Volleyball and Tennis Coach.
Finance Committee
- University of Louisiana System's report on the Quality Assurance and Improvement Program for FY 2026.
- University of Louisiana System’s report on internal and external audit activity for the period of August 6, 2026 to September 28, 2026.
- University of Louisiana System's financial status of alternatively financed projects for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
Academic and Student Affairs Committee
- Grambling State University's request for approval of a Memorandum of Understanding between GSU, Grambling High Foundation, and Lincoln Preparatory School.
- Grambling State University's request for approval to confer the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to Mr. James E. Bradford at the Fall 2026 Commencement Exercises.
Other
- Faculty Granted Tenure: Anjan Biswas, Sharonda Cage-Hatter, Junior Hopwood, Daniel Huey, Abdul Khaliq, Kendra McMurry, Ajanta Roy and Adrienne Webber
- Faculty Promoted in Rank: Anjan Biswas, Terence Bradford, Kashley Brown, Sharonda Cage-Hatter, Mahmoud Haj, Milisha Hart-Simmons, Junior Hopwood, Carolyn Jackson, Nikole Roebuck, Ajanta Roy and Daphne Williams
- Next Meeting: December 4,2026
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Voice Services
Voice services are available for GUNAA members who graduated from or attended Grambling State University prior to 1986. To access this service, please contact the National Office at 318.247.6770.
To ensure this resource remains available for those who need it most, we respectfully ask that only members who rely on voice services to stay connected and engaged with the Alumni Association utilize this service.
| | | | GUNAA National Alumni Association | | | |
Office hours: Monday - Thursday | 9am - 3pm Central
Open on Fridays during Peak periods
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To Report a Fallen Tiger
Family members are encouraged to complete the attached Fallen Tiger Notification Form to inform the GUNAA National Office of the passing of a fellow GramFam. Click here to submit the notification. Please note that this memorial benefit is available exclusively for current, paid GUNAA members.
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We are LOOKING FOR YOU!
Get Involved. Make an Impact.
Strengthen Grambling.
GUNAA needs more alumni to join our efforts and help advance the mission of our Association. Whether you have time, talent, expertise, or a passion for serving Grambling State University, there is a place for you. Together, we can make an even greater impact for current and future Tigers.
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How to Sign Up:
Click here or visit our website to sign up. Together we can achieve great things!
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