Courtesy of GSU Communications
Following the conclusion of the 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session on June 30, Grambling State University is highlighting significant state support for several of the University’s highest strategic priorities.
These investments advance academic excellence, research, campus modernization, student success, athletics, and the University’s continued growth.
The 2026 session included additional appropriations, capital investments, and project authorizations that will strengthen student recruitment, strategic partnerships, campus infrastructure, institutional operations, and major capital projects. The $24 million is in addition to the general state appropriation of $19 million for Grambling State. Together, these measures reflect continued confidence in Grambling State University’s strategic vision and its role in preparing future leaders for Louisiana and beyond.
All of 2026 GSU projects and the specific legislation that provided support include:
House Bill 2 (Act 4)
- $12,000,000 (Priority 2) to continue construction of new Criminal Justice facility and laboratory
- $6,000,000 to continue construction of new GSU indoor athletic facility
- $2,500,000 for reroofing, waterproofing, and building envelope improvements across campus facilities.
- House Bill 1 (Act 3)
- $3,000,000 for additional operational support
- $200,000 for expansion of graduate education and adult learning
- House Bill 312 (ACT 961)
- $350,000 for support of strategic partnerships
Among the session’s most significant outcomes was the elevation of the planned $12 million facility to Priority-2 in Louisiana’s Capital Outlay process. This will enhance the University’s Criminal Justice programs and once completed the facility will provide modern instructional and research spaces for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students in Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and other disciplines.
The session also advanced the University’s planned Indoor Athletic Facility through an additional $6 million placed into the Capital Outlay Savings Fund, building upon the $6.7 million previously approved for the project and continuing toward the construction of a transformational year-round training facility for student-athletes.
“The additional investment from the state of Louisiana represents meaningful support for our students and the future of Grambling State University,” said Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr., President of Grambling State University. “Most importantly, it creates greater opportunities for our students to learn, lead, compete, and succeed. The investments strengthen our ability to expand academic excellence, modernize our campus, enhance the student experience, and prepare leaders who will make meaningful contributions throughout Louisiana and beyond.”
“We are grateful to Governor Jeff Landry for signing these measures and to Senate President Cameron Henry, Speaker Phillip DeVillier, House Appropriations Chairman Jack McFarland, our legislative delegation, the University of Louisiana System, the Louisiana Board of Regents, and all of our state partners for their continued confidence in Grambling State University’s mission.”
As Grambling State University commemorates 125 years of academic excellence, these investments further position the University to build upon its distinguished legacy while advancing a bold vision for the future.
