Courtesy of GSU Communications
Grambling State University’s Leisure Studies Program continues to hold a distinctive place in higher education as the only program in Louisiana accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT).
Housed in the Department of Kinesiology, Sport and Leisure Studies, the program is accredited through 2031. In a June 30, 2026, letter, COAPRT notified Grambling State University that the program’s 2026 Annual Progress Report met all requirements, supporting the program’s continued accreditation standing.
COAPRT accreditation is a national standard of academic quality for programs preparing students for careers in parks, recreation, tourism, leisure services, and related professions. For Grambling State students, the accreditation demonstrates that the program meets established standards in curriculum, student learning outcomes, assessment, continuous improvement, and professional preparation.
“At Grambling State University, academic excellence is not simply a goal; it is a standard we work every day to uphold,” said President Martin Lemelle, Jr. “The continued COAPRT accreditation of our Leisure Studies Program speaks to the quality of our faculty, the strength of our academic programs, and our commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers that serve communities and improve quality of life. We are especially proud that Grambling State remains home to Louisiana’s only COAPRT-accredited program.”
The Leisure Studies Program prepares students for careers in recreation management, community programming, tourism, sport and leisure services, parks and recreation, and related fields. Through coursework, experiential learning, and professional development, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to lead programs and services that promote wellness, engagement, and community development.
Dr. Obadiah J.K. Simmons, Jr., head and director of the Department of Kinesiology, Sport and Leisure Studies and director of the Sport Administration Graduate Program, said the program’s accreditation standing is an important point of pride for Grambling State and for students pursuing careers in the field.
“This continued accreditation demonstrates the strength and relevance of Grambling State University’s Leisure Studies Program,” Simmons said. “Our faculty remain committed to preparing students who are knowledgeable, service-minded, and ready to lead in recreation, parks, tourism, sport, and leisure-related professions. Being the only COAPRT-accredited program in Louisiana is a distinction we value and a responsibility we take seriously.”
“Accreditation matters because it provides an external measure of quality and accountability,” said Dr. Connie Walton, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “The continued recognition of the Leisure Studies Program speaks to the dedication of Dr. Simmons, the faculty, and the department’s ongoing work to support student success and strengthen academic programs that meet workforce and community needs.”
As Grambling State University marks 125 years of academic excellence, the continued COAPRT accreditation of the Leisure Studies Program adds to the University’s legacy of preparing students to lead, serve, and make an impact in Louisiana and beyond.
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