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GUNAA
Newsletter
May 2025
| | Grambling University National Alumni Association | | |
JOIN GUNAA --Help us FIND and ACTIVATE our ALUMNI
Scan the QR Code or click link
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Leadership Announcements
| | Registration Now Open for the 2025 National Convention | | |
Register Now for the 2025 National Convention!
Click the QR code or click here to complete your registration today.
Help Us Secure Sponsors!
Sponsorship opportunities are available for the 2025 Convention. Ask local businesses, churches, organizations, friends, and family to support. click here to view the sponsorship packet and submit payment online—quick, easy, and fee-free!
2026 National Convention – Miami, FL!
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Help Us Secure Bayou Classic Sponsors!
"Many hands make light work." Support GUNAA’s Bayou Classic events by becoming a sponsor or sharing the link with a potential supporter. It’s quick, easy, and fee-free to pay online! Click here
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AWARDS
Submit Your Nominations by May 31st!
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GUNAA is proud to announce the launch of the GUNAA Store.
Big News! We’re thrilled to roll out exclusive discounts on GUNAA merchandise! Whether you’re gearing up for college fairs, leveling up your personal style, planning epic event giveaways, or hunting for the perfect gift—our top-quality gear has you covered!
Shop now – Click here or head to our website to grab these amazing deals.
Don’t keep it to yourself! Spread the word to your chapter leaders, members, and friends on social media. Let’s make sure everyone gets in on this amazing offer.
Thank you for your unwavering support!
SHOP NOW TIGER!
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We are Implementing
a New Membership System
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Submit an Email and Mobile Number
As we transition to a new and improved system to better serve our alumni, we are updating our national records and need your help. We're asking all alumni—especially our longtime valued members—to provide a current email address and mobile number, if you haven’t already.
We understand this may feel like an extra step, but your participation is essential. These updates will strengthen our infrastructure and ensure we stay connected with every member.
Please note: Our new system requires a unique email address for each member. Shared email addresses can no longer be used.
To submit your updated information, please:
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Call the national office at 318-247-6770 (Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Central Time), or
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Email us at office@gunaa.org. If needed, a family member may email on your behalf. Be sure to include your membership ID number, if available.
Thank you for your continued support and for helping us build a stronger alumni network.
| | | Driving to 10K Membership | |
New Chapters - Loading!
The Membership Committee recently hosted a dynamic and successful event to engage GRAMFAM groups from across the globe who are interested in starting new or reactivating alumni chapters. The enthusiasm and momentum are growing—don’t miss your chance to be part of it! COME GROW WITH US!
Interested in launching a GUNAA chapter in your area? Contact our National Office at 318.247.6770 for more information.
| | | Congratulations Graduates | | |
Celebrating Milestones!
Congratulations to our GramFam Class of 1975 on celebrating your 50th Golden Anniversary—a remarkable legacy of pride and excellence!
We also extend a warm welcome and congratulations to our recent graduates—your alumni journey begins now, and we’re excited to have you join the Grambling State University National Alumni family!
Congratulations to Life Member, Alana Robinson, as she received the Doctor of Human Letters
| | All top graduates were honored with gifts from GUNAA in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements. | | The Class of 1975 was well represented at the graduation ceremony, showing their continued GramFam pride as they celebrated their 50th Golden Anniversary. | | We were honored to welcome Tabitha Brown to campus as our commencement speaker, inspiring graduates with her powerful words and presence. | | GUNAA Vice President Crystal Sayles and GUNAA President Tammy Richardson were in attendance, proudly representing the National Alumni Association. | | A membership drive was conducted to encourage alumni engagement. Membership flyers were thoughtfully placed on the seats of our recent graduates, inviting them to stay connected and become active members of the GramFam alumni community. | | Mr. SGA, Morgan Patton and Miss GSU, Jesslyn Johnson were given graduation gifts from GUNAA | |
GUNAA Celebrations & Member Spotlight
| | | Congratulations to Life Member Alana Ward Robinson on receiving the Doctor of Human Letters during the Spring Commencement! | | The 1901 Day of Giving set a new fundraising record securing $711,907 in philanthropic support from students, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and friends. This remarkable total represents a 142% achievement over the campaign goal of $500,000 and a 38% increase over last year’s results. | | Congratulations to Mr. Tony White, founding member of the Miami GUNAA Chapter, on becoming President of United Teachers of Dade—representing the fourth-largest public school district in the nation with 27,000 employees serving more than 330,000 students in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools. | | We paused to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, commitment, and selflessness will never be forgotten. We honor their service—not just today, but always. | | 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. | | Congratulations to our very own Ethan Bates and Chris Marcellus on making All-SWAC Second Baseball Team! Way to go G-Men! | | | |
Just announced...
Shreveport Kickoff Classic
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See you in Vegas GramFam! Booking Hotel/Flights/Game Day Tickets & Packages!
Hotel
Flights Code: ZQKP761354
Game Tickets
Packages
| | Come catch a vibe as GramFam and JSU Alumni gather for a mixer on the strip! | | |
100 years of the State Fair Classic—the legendary rivalry between Prairie View A&M and Grambling State University has electrified the Cotton Bowl--this isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of tradition, excellence, and legacy in HBCUs' football.
Game Day: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Kickoff: 6:00 PM
Tickets On Sale: Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM on Ticketmaster
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Booking Rooms for Bayou Classic - Open by May 30th
Bayou Classic hotel rooms are reserved exclusively for GUNAA members. To access the reservation system, each member will need their Membership ID.
A “How-To” email will be sent directly to GUNAA members with instructions on how to book rooms.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the national office at 318-247-6770, Monday through Thursday, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. CST.
Important:
- Life Members will receive priority access to reserve their rooms during an exclusive 2-week window.
- After this period, all other members will be granted access to the reservation system.
| | Secure your game day seats! Call GSU Athletics or click below | | | Upcoming Events & Activities | | | |  | |
GUNAA Scholarship Committee
7:15PM CST
Meeting ID: 817 7207 1148
Passcode: 704664
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Program Committee Meeting
7:30PM CST
Meeting ID - 494 546 9653
Passcode- 966083
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GUNAA Social Committee (Homecoming/Bayou Classic)
6:30 PM CST
Meeting ID: 846 0164 7034
Passcode: 166611
Meeting Link
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GUNAA High School Relations/ Recruiting Committee Meeting
6:30 PM CST
Meeting ID: 734 248 5454
Passcode: 961771
Meeting Link
| | | | Shine the light on your chapter! We encourage all officers, regional representatives, committee chairs, and chapters to contribute content via gunaacommunications@gmail.com | | |
Morehouse Chapter
Bastrop, LA
Morehouse Chapter takes center stage at the Morehouse Career Expo at Bastrop Municipal Center!
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Martha Adams Chapter
Hammond, LA
Future Grambling Stars – Don’t Miss Out! Apply for the Martha Adams Alumni Chapter Scholarship TODAY and take one step closer to your dreams! Click the link or scan the QR code to apply now by June 30, 2025
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Shreveport Chapter
Friday, June 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
Guests will enjoy an elegant evening of entertainment featuring Eddie Spencer & Alter Ego, while contributing to the advancement of students pursuing higher education.
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Shreveport Chapter
Participate in the Inaugural Dr. Joseph Carter Golf Tournament at Northwood Hills Golf Course. This four-person scramble tournament provides an opportunity for alumni and friends to engage in friendly competition while furthering our mission to support education. Team registration is $500. For additional details or to register, please visit www.gunaashreveport.org
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Windy City Chapter
Chicago, IL
Support the chapter as they plan a bus trip to the GSU vs OSU football game to be held in September
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Metro Washington DC Chapter
Let’s turn up the Grambling vibe! Mark your calendar and get ready to enjoy good times and great food with GUNAA members and our National President, Dr. Tammy Richardson, at the Annual Cookout on Saturday, June 28th.
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Los Angeles Chapter
Eat in or take out; pre-order your fish fry dinner today and savor the delicious flavors of Red Snapper or Catfish, sides, and dessert! Don’t wait, orders close June 3 at 6pm! Order online at gualaa.org/events, via Zelle (gualaa1901@gmail.com), or CashApp ($GramAlumni)
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Los Angeles Chapter
During the month of May, in lieu of a chapter meeting, GUAALA attends a member’s church where our new and returning officers are blessed. They attended Judson Baptist Church.
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Marion B. Colter Chapter
Atlanta, GA
Meet the new wave of interns repping The Marion B. Colter Greater Georgia Chapter! We’re bringing fresh energy, big ideas, and unapologetic pride in Grambling. This is only the beginning!
Meet the powerhouse team rebranding the game as the Marion B. Colter Greater GA Chapter interns!
Ja’Kyren Montgomery
Tianna Steen
Brandon Jackson
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Metro DFW Chapter
Dallas, TX
Huge thank you to the Metro DFW Chapter for representing Grambling State Office of Admissions during the Lancaster and Duncanville High School Decision Days.
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Metro DFW Chapter
Dallas, TX
The Class of 2025 will have 71 students planning to attend the 1st Annual Freshman Send-Off Party on July 19th from 1pm - 3pm at Arlington Baptist College Student Union.
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Metro DFW Chapter
Dallas, TX
Come out for an afternoon of thrilling horse racing, networking, and GSU Tiger pride! Tickets are $125 each and $1000,Table of 8.
Cashapp: $MetroDFW1901
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Southern California Chapter
Los Angeles, CA
Golfing for a great cause! Plan to come out and support the event on July 18, 2025.
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Rapides Parish Chapter
Alexandria, LA
Join us for Soul Food Sunday on June 22nd at Main Street Community Center and support local GSU students. Mark your calendar – 12 Noon to 2PM! Dine in or take to-go for just $20.
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GSU President Dr. Martin Lemelle Appointed to NCAA Committee on Access and Opportunity
Grambling State University President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. has been appointed to a three-year term on the NCAA Committee on Access, Opportunity, and Impact. This appointment positions Dr. Lemelle to advocate for equity and inclusion in college athletics, ensuring that Grambling State and other HBCUs play a pivotal role in shaping the future of collegiate sports. His leadership signals a commitment to expanding pathways for underrepresented athletes and institutions on the national stage.
Read Article Here
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Grambling State University and City of Grambling Forge Stronger Ties with New MOU
Grambling State University and the City of Grambling have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen their long-standing partnership. This formal agreement focuses on public safety, workforce development, community engagement, and more, aiming to create a unified and thriving environment for both students and residents. Together, GSU and the city are setting the stage for a future of collaboration, shared purpose, and sustainable growth.
Read More Here!
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HBCU Day At The Capital
On April 28, 2025, Louisiana celebrated Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Day at the State Capitol, as designated by Senate Resolution 50 and House Resolution 77.This event honored the state's eight HBCUs—including Dillard University, Grambling State University, and Xavier University of Louisiana—for their significant contributions to education, workforce development, and cultural heritage.The Southern University System, the nation's only HBCU system, was also recognized for its unique role in higher education.The day featured legislative acknowledgments and public celebrations, highlighting the enduring impact of HBCUs on Louisiana's communities and economy.
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Grambling State Expands Academic Horizons with New Programs in Sustainability and Public Health
The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors approved new academic programs at Grambling State University, including a Master’s in Sustainability and a Bachelor’s in Public Health. The Board also highlighted the UL System’s $13.6 billion economic impact, student success outcomes, and upcoming presidential search at the University of Louisiana Monroe.
Read More Here!
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Harvard's Financial Might vs. HBCU Challenges: A Deep Dive into Endowment Disparities
This article examines the vast disparity between Harvard University's $53.2 billion endowment and the significantly smaller endowments of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).It highlights how Harvard's substantial financial resources enable it to challenge federal policies without fear of losing funding, a luxury most HBCUs cannot afford due to their reliance on government support.The piece underscores the systemic inequities in higher education funding and the challenges HBCUs face in advocating for their interests. Read Article Here!
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LEGENDS
Sports
Hall of Fame
We congratulate our GUNAA life member, Mr. Martin Lemelle, Sr. (basketball) and all GramFam on their 2025 induction.
| | | | Dr. Leon Whitaker was one of GUNAA's founding members. | |
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Communications Team
Are you creative? Are you looking for a way to give back to your Alma Mater? The Communications Team is seeking volunteers to assist with the monthly newsletter. For more information, email:
gunaacommunications@gmail.com.
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Voice Services
Available for GUNAA members who graduated or attended GSU before 1986.
Please contact our national office at 318.247.6770 if you need hard copies of any GUNAA materials. In the spirit of fairness —please reserve this limited service for members who depend on it to remain engaged with the alumni association.
| | | | GUNAA National Alumni Association | | | |
Office hours: Monday - Thursday | 9am - 3pm Central
Peak periods on Fridays
| | | Eight (8) Membership Types in GUNAA | |
GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
Constitution & Bylaws - Select here; Financial Procedures - Select here; Operating Procedures - Select here.
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Get Involved in GUNAA
Join a 2025 National Committee!
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Are you looking for a way to make a difference and contribute to our organization’s success? Joining a national committee is an opportunity to share your ideas, utilize your skills, and help us achieve our goals. GramFam you can make an impact; your expertise and enthusiasm can help drive meaningful change.
Committees Available:
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· Social
· Young Alumni
· Fundraising
· Awards
· Membership
· Technology
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· Public Relations
· High School Relations/Recruiting
· History
· Mentorship
· Scholarships
· PC For Students
· National Convention
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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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