Courtesy of GSU Communications

Grambling State University proudly announces the launch of the GR2 Foundation: Grambling Research and Resource Foundation, a transformative new nonprofit designed to advance the university’s pursuit of R2 (Research 2) classification, deepen its research footprint, and build long-term financial resilience. 

The launch of GR2 marks a strategic leap forward as Grambling State prepares to unveil its new institutional strategic plan in 2026. That plan places research, graduate education, and resource development at the core of the university’s next era. GR2 will be the platform that powers these ambitions—mobilizing philanthropy, expanding public-private partnerships, and cementing the institution’s position as a top-tier HBCU for innovation, impact, and opportunity. 

“GR2 is the engine behind our next chapter,” said Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr., President of Grambling State University. “It represents not just a commitment to excellence, but a belief in the transformational power of HBCUs to lead in discovery, technology, and equitable access. As we rise toward R2 status, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, smarter, and more sustainable Grambling State.” 

From Momentum to Movement 

GR2 builds on Grambling State’s record-breaking fundraising success, including a historic $711,907 raised during the 1901 Day of Giving, consistent growth in annual campaigns, and expanded scholarship support for students. These efforts reflect the university’s deep commitment to student access, affordability, and excellence. 

“Our top fundraising priority remains what it has always been—scholarships for our students,” added Lemelle. “GR2 gives us the tools to think bigger and build smarter. Whether it’s supporting a first-generation college student, launching a new lab, or creating an endowed chair for a faculty leader, this foundation will be our vehicle for transformation.”  

Board of Directors 

The GR2 Foundation will be led by a dynamic board of alumni and professionals representing cross-sector expertise: 

• Jon-Al Duplantier, J.D. ’89 – Corporate board director and former energy executive 

• Adonis Ducre, Pharm. D. ’04 – Entrepreneur and healthcare M&A strategist 

• Eric Moses, MBA, CPA, CIA ’01 – Finance executive at Shell North America 

• Kourtni Mason, J.D. ’08 – Legal counsel and risk management expert 

• Portia Singh, Ph.D. ’07 – Biomedical engineer and HealthTech innovator

Ex-officio members appointed by the President include: 

• Bharat Rawal, Ph.D. – Faculty Representative 

• Theodore Callier ’88– Staff Representative 

• Amaya Moore – Student Government Representative 

• Rachel Davis ’10 – Finance Representative
• Brandon A. Logan ’06, Vice President for University Advancement & Innovation, serves as Executive Director of GR2. 

Built for Research. Ready for Results. 

Grambling State has recently secured over $12 million in research-related funding, including $7,000,000 from the National Science Foundation, $500,000 from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and additional awards from other agencies. These investments reflect the university’s strategic focus on expanding research capacity, supporting faculty innovation, and strengthening graduate scholarship across disciplines. 

“Our recent momentum in external funding and research growth is not by chance—it’s by design,” said Theodore Callier, Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs. “GR2 is the next step in scaling that design. It will allow us to be more responsive to opportunities, more agile in forming partnerships, and more intentional about how we support our faculty and our students.” 

“The launch of GR2 is more than symbolic—it’s strategic,” added Brandon A. Logan. “It reflects the university’s bold posture to lead nationally in research and resource development while staying grounded in advancing pathways and possibilities for the institution. This foundation gives us the agility to act on opportunity, the infrastructure to scale impact, and the vision to shape a Grambling State University that’s built for the next century.” 

Why R2 Matters 

To achieve R2 classification, a university must: 

• Expend at least $5 million annually in research and development 

• Award 20 or more research/scholarship doctorates 

• Sustain meaningful investment in graduate education and infrastructure

Grambling is already aligning with these standards through current and emerging doctoral programs like the Ph.D. in Criminology and Justice Administration.  Additional growth and strategic alignment include graduate education in Sustainability, Quantum Computing, and Nursing.

“Our doctoral programs reflect our commitment to both academic excellence and real-world impact,” said Dr. Connie Walton, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “With GR2, we are now positioned to support these programs more robustly through research funding, student fellowships, and the infrastructure needed to scale graduate education. R2 is not just a classification—it’s a measure of our momentum.” 

A Signal to the World 

“GR2 is our promise to every investor, researcher, and partner that Grambling State is prepared, accountable, and future-facing,” said Logan. “Whether you are investing in a scholarship, supporting a research fellowship, or funding a new campus project, you can trust that this foundation is built on strategic alignment, transparent stewardship, and a vision worthy of your confidence.” 

For more information, visit gram.edu/foundation or follow @Grambling1901 on social media. 

About Grambling State University 

Grambling State University combines the academic excellence of a major institution with the supportive atmosphere of a close-knit community, creating an environment where students are empowered to become something more. As the first and only HBCU with a digital library, Grambling State continues to break boundaries and expand what’s possible through curiosity, collaboration, and commitment. 

Founded in 1901 in Grambling, Louisiana, the university offers 46 undergraduate and graduate programs across a historic 590-acre campus. With nationally recognized athletics, an acclaimed marching band, and vibrant student life, Grambling State is a place where every individual is seen, supported, and inspired to succeed. Our ethos—Where Everybody is Somebody—reflects the legacy we honor and the future we’re building. Learn more at www.gram.edu.