Courtesy of GSU Communications
Grambling State University is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Kenyatta Shamburger as Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective June 28, 2025, following a national search.
A seasoned higher education leader, Dr. Shamburger brings over two decades of experience in strategic operations, student affairs, and executive administration at some of the nation’s leading colleges and universities.
In his new role, Dr. Shamburger will provide oversight of the University’s core operational divisions, including Facilities Management, Capital Projects, Information Technology, Property and Receiving, Safety and Risk Management, Emergency Management, and the University Police Department (GSUPD). His appointment reflects the institution’s commitment to strengthening its infrastructure in alignment with its strategic priorities.
“As Grambling continues to excel, I am energized to join President Lemelle and the leadership team at such a pivotal moment in the university’s trajectory,” said Dr. Shamburger. “Grambling State is a storied institution with unlimited potential, and I am honored to be part of a mission-driven community where values, vision, and action align.”
Dr. Shamburger most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Talladega College, where he also held roles as Vice President and Chief of Staff. His prior experience includes leadership appointments at Philander Smith College, Iowa State University, Clemson University, and Morehouse College. He earned a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Iowa State University and is widely respected for his operational expertise and student-centered leadership.
President Martin Lemelle, Jr., D.B.A., praised the appointment: “Our leadership appointments reflect our strategic focus on building a future-ready university—one that honors our legacy while accelerating toward bold new possibilities. Dr. Shamburger brings the experience, insight, and passion to help us build the systems that will carry Grambling forward. We are honored to welcome him.”
Simultaneously, Grambling State announces the continued leadership of Penya Moses, who now serves as Vice President for Administration and Business Affairs, effective May 2025. A respected legal and policy executive, Moses previously served as the University’s Chief Operating Officer from 2021 to 2025. In her new cabinet-level role, she oversees Compliance, Title IX, Civil Rights, Human Resources, Procurement, Contracts, and Policy Administration.
“I’ve always believed Grambling’s greatest asset is its people,” said Moses. “We’re building something enduring—and it’s a privilege to help architect the systems that support it. I look forward to advancing our commitment to operational excellence, equity, and institutional integrity.”
President Lemelle added: “Ms. Moses’ contributions to Grambling have been transformational. Her steady leadership, deep understanding of institutional governance, and unwavering commitment to compliance and transparency continue to position us for long-term success.”
The appointments of Dr. Shamburger and Ms. Moses represent the latest milestones in Grambling State University’s Adapt and Advance initiative—an ongoing effort to modernize university operations and strengthen leadership capacity in service of student success and institutional excellence.
