Courtesy of Experience Ruston
Experience Ruston (Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau) is proud to announce the Grambling State University Office of Student Affairs as the recipient of the 2026 Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award. The award was presented on May 7 during Experience Ruston’s annual Tourism Impact Breakfast in celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week.
The Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award recognizes an organization or individual who goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, engaging, and memorable experience for visitors to the community. This year’s recipient exemplifies that commitment through a transformative approach to one of the region’s most significant annual events – Grambling State University’s Homecoming Weekend.
Through its Department of Campus Activities & Student Engagement, the Office of Student Affairs introduced initiatives such as Yard Fest and the Ultimate Grambling Experience to intentionally elevate engagement across campus. Designed as a vibrant, community-centered, festival environment, these activations brought together students, alumni, faculty, local businesses, and community partners to celebrate the spirit of Grambling while strengthening connections across Lincoln Parish.
These efforts resulted in increased student engagement, strong participation throughout Homecoming Weekend, and a more unified and dynamic campus atmosphere. In 2025, the enhanced Homecoming experience welcomed more than 50,000 attendees, creating meaningful opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to engage directly with visitors and promote commerce.
“The Office of Student Affairs at Grambling State University has reimagined what hospitality can look like on a university campus,” said Tori Davis, Interim President & CEO of Experience Ruston. “Their intentional focus on creating inclusive, engaging experiences has not only enhanced a beloved tradition, but has strengthened the connection between campus and community in a way that benefits our entire parish.”
The initiative was driven by a vision to create a safe, welcoming space that fosters genuine connection while celebrating the culture, talent, and businesses of Lincoln Parish. By prioritizing a family-friendly atmosphere and intentionally integrating local partners, the Office of Student Affairs has established Yard Fest as a signature component of Homecoming and a model for future community-centered programming.
“Being recognized with the Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award is both an honor and a meaningful affirmation of the Office of Student Affairs’ commitment to serving our students and the broader community with excellence,” said Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Ellis, Vice President of Student Affairs at Grambling State University. “This recognition reflects our intentional efforts to create inclusive, engaging, and impactful experiences that meet the needs of those we serve.”
Since 1999, Experience Ruston has recognized individuals and organizations that make a significant impact on Lincoln Parish through tourism and hospitality. The organization is honored to recognize the Grambling State University Office of Student Affairs for its leadership in creating experiences that foster connection, celebrate culture, and elevate the visitor experience.
