By Haylee Hines
In 2024, Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. was selected as Grambling State University’s (GSU) 11th president at 39 years old, making him the youngest currently serving president of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
His career accomplishments follow several years of work in higher education and serving as the chief financial officer for Maryland Institute College of Art. KTVE/KARD spoke to Dr. Lemelle about what it means to have this opportunity to lead a university in his home state.
Prior to entering the workforce, Dr. Lemelle attended GSU for his undergraduate education and held the title of president of the Student Government Association. He graduated from the university in 2006 with honors and earned a bachelor of science in accounting. Just nearly 20 years removed from college, Dr. Lemelle told KTVE/KARD how he has a unique perspective on the college experience.
It gives me both of a window into their world, so I’m close enough to have some similar experiences, but I also have a broad perspective and I’ve been out in industry, traveled the world, and so I can impart knowledge on students that lean them in to what’s possible GSU.
DR. MARTIN LEMELLE JR. | PRESIDENT, GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY
In his first year of serving as GSU’s president, Lemelle accomplished several financial goals for the university, but he stated that his connection with the students is what he was most proud of. KTVE/KARD spoke to Lemelle about his success in inspiring students through organic moments.
Every student that we touch every life that we encounter is an opportunity to leave an imprint to leave a legacy and to think about what is it that future generations will be proud of that we did today.
DR. MARTIN LEMELLE JR. | PRESIDENT, GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY
Dr. Lemelle stated that his goals for his next year as president are focused on diversifying GSU’s revenue streams, refining the school’s technology, and refining how the university recruits students.