Grambling State University Celebrates 125 Years with a National Tour to Honor Its Legacy

Celebrating History on the Road: Grambling State University's National Tour

Grambling State University (GSU) is gearing up for a significant milestone this fall as it celebrates its 125th anniversary. Dubbed a 'Multiversary,' 2026 marks not only 125 years since GSU was founded but also 100 years of its renowned Tiger Athletics and the World Famed Band. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the university is launching a national tour aimed at connecting with alumni, friends, and communities throughout the United States.

This initiative, titled 'MARCH ON,' will feature a screening of a film that explores the intergenerational legacy of Grambling State. The film highlights the stories of three influential Gramblinites: Denise Young, a distinguished alumnus and former executive at Apple; Dalvin Adams, a commercial photographer and entrepreneur; and Rylee Beaudion, a current student majoring in Elementary Education and Visual and Performing Arts. Through this storytelling, audiences will witness how GSU has continually evolved while making a significant impact on the lives of its students.

Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr., President of Grambling State University, expressed the importance of this tour, stating, "This tour allows us to share Grambling's story with alumni, friends, and communities nationwide. As we honor the University's illustrious legacy, we are also reaffirming the enduring power of HBCUs to shape generations of future leaders and drive meaningful change."

The first four stops of the tour are set to begin in early September:

- Grambling, LA - September 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM
- Washington, DC - September 14, 2026, at 6:30 PM
- New York, NY - September 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM
- Dallas, TX - September 24, 2026, at 6:30 PM

Each event will not only feature the film screening but will also include moderated discussions with notable Grambling alumni following the presentation. These interactions will serve as a platform for fostering connections and sharing experiences among attendees.

Following the kickoff events, the tour is expected to expand to various other cities across the country, aiming to unify multiple generations of the GramFam and extend the celebration beyond the university's campus. Tickets and more information about the Multiversary celebrations are available at gram.edu/marchon.

Grambling State University has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1901 when a group of Black farmers in northern Louisiana reached out to Booker T. Washington for educational support. Washington responded by sending Charles P. Adams, a young teacher who became the founding president. Today, GSU continues to embrace its motto, "Where Everybody is Somebody," with around 5,000 students enrolled and a commitment to nurturing academic excellence in an inclusive environment.

As the national tour gets underway, it's a powerful reminder of the historical significance and continuing legacy of Grambling State University, showcasing its role not only as an educational institution but also as a hub for community engagement and personal growth among its diverse alumni.

For media inquiries, please contact Cassandre Souvenir at The Chamber Group at [email protected] or call 646-460-3831.

Stay tuned for more updates as the tour progresses, and join the festivities to celebrate the milestones that have shaped the warm and vibrant community that is Grambling State University.