Courtesy of GSU Communications
Grambling State University celebrated the opening of its new Student Success Center on Friday, Sept. 4, marking a major milestone in the University’s continued investment in student success and the campus experience.
University leaders, students, project partners, and members of the campus community gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the three-story, 60,000-square-foot facility, which brings key student services into one central location.
The Student Success Center houses Campus Living and Housing, University College and academic support services, Career and Professional Development, Admissions and Recruitment, and Financial Aid. The centralized model is designed to improve access, coordination, and service delivery for students as they move through the enrollment, academic support, housing, financial aid, and career development experience.
Developed in partnership with Black & Gold Facilities, Inc., supported by M3A Architecture and Lincoln Builders, and made possible through funding from the U.S. Department of Education, the Student Success Center is one of Grambling State University’s most significant recent investments in student-centered infrastructure.
“This morning, we can say, ‘Look what we’ve built,’” said Grambling State University President Martin Lemelle Jr., D.B.A., during the ceremony. “As you experience this space today, you will see a space where customer service is our top priority.”
The opening comes during Grambling State University’s historic Multiversary celebration, honoring 125 years of academic excellence, 100 years of Tiger Athletics, and 100 years of the World Famed Tiger Marching Band. The new facility adds to the University’s momentum as it continues strengthening the spaces, services, and systems that support student achievement.
University of Louisiana System President Rick Gallot, J.D., who previously served as president of Grambling State University, emphasized that the facility was created with students at the center.
“This building is not about any of us who will speak on this microphone today,” Gallot said. “It’s about giving you all the opportunity to matriculate in the space that is all about your success.”
Jackie Slack, president of Black & Gold Facilities, Inc., said the project represents the fulfillment of a clear charge to design and deliver a facility that meets the needs of current and future students. Slack also noted that the $25 million project was delivered on time and within budget.
Representatives from M3A Architecture and Lincoln Builders joined University officials in celebrating the facility’s completion. M3A Principal and Managing Architect William L. McElroy described the building as a space designed to support the student body and the continued growth of Grambling State University, while Lincoln Builders Project Manager Tobin Pritchard recognized the strong partnerships formed throughout the construction process.
Brandon A. Logan, Vice President for Advancement and Innovation, called the Student Success Center a new standard for what is possible on campus.
“When you think about what this building represents, this is the starting point of a new level of excellence,” Logan said. “We’ve shown you what’s possible, what we can do on this campus, and this is what it looks like moving forward.”
With the opening of the Student Success Center, Grambling State University continues to advance its mission by creating spaces that place students at the center of service, support, opportunity, and long-term success.
