Grambling State University Executive and Leadership Team

Barry Pearson, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Grambling State University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Overseeing financial reporting and resource distribution, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment with the requirements set by the Louisiana Board of Regents. This leadership role involves developing long-term financial strategies that support the university's accreditation goals and academic programs. By monitoring revenue streams and controlling expenditures, Barry Pearson maintains the economic stability necessary for institutional growth. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to allocate funds toward critical infrastructure and student support services. Through rigorous financial oversight, Pearson secures the resources required to sustain the university's mission. This dedication to fiscal responsibility enables the institution to continue providing high-quality education while navigating the complexities of higher education funding.

Kenyatta Shamburger, the Chief Operating Officer at Grambling State University, manages the daily operational functions and campus facilities that sustain the university environment. Overseeing physical plant maintenance and auxiliary services, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the campus infrastructure supports the academic and extracurricular needs of the student population. This leadership role involves coordinating with various departments to optimize resource allocation and improve operational efficiency. By streamlining campus logistics, Kenyatta Shamburger directly impacts the quality of life for the university community. The Chief Operating Officer monitors facility safety and compliance with state regulations to maintain a secure learning environment. Through proactive management of campus assets, Shamburger facilitates the smooth execution of university events and daily operations. This focus on operational excellence allows the institution to provide a stable and supportive foundation for academic growth and student development.

Tenasia Fields, the Office Manager To Chief Operating Officer at Grambling State University, coordinates administrative workflows and communication channels within the operations department. Overseeing scheduling and documentation for the Chief Operating Officer, the Office Manager To Chief Operating Officer ensures that executive priorities remain organized and actionable. This leadership role involves facilitating collaboration between operational staff and other university departments to maintain institutional efficiency. By managing administrative tasks and supporting project timelines, Tenasia Fields enables the operations team to focus on campus-wide improvements. The Office Manager To Chief Operating Officer serves as a central point of contact for operational inquiries, ensuring that information flows effectively across the university. Through meticulous attention to detail and process management, Fields supports the strategic initiatives of the operations office. This administrative leadership contributes to the overall functionality and success of the university's daily operations.

DeCorian Jones, the Freshman Class President at Grambling State University, represents the interests and concerns of the incoming student body within the university governance structure. Overseeing student initiatives and class-specific programming, the Freshman Class President ensures that new students feel integrated into the campus culture. This leadership role involves collaborating with student government leaders to advocate for resources that enhance the freshman experience. By organizing events and fostering community engagement, DeCorian Jones promotes student involvement and academic success. The Freshman Class President acts as a liaison between the student body and university administration, communicating feedback to improve campus life. Through active participation in student affairs, Jones helps shape the environment for new students. This commitment to student advocacy ensures that the freshman class remains a vibrant and engaged part of the university community, contributing to the overall mission of student development.

Cynthia Warrick, the Interim President at Grambling State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction during this transitional period for the institution. Overseeing the university's academic and administrative functions, the Interim President ensures continuity in the pursuit of educational excellence and accreditation compliance. This leadership role involves engaging with stakeholders, faculty, and the student body to maintain institutional momentum. By guiding the university through strategic planning and policy implementation, Cynthia Warrick upholds the core values of the institution. The Interim President collaborates with the Board of Regents to address institutional needs and promote the university's reputation. Through steady leadership and a focus on academic integrity, Warrick fosters an environment conducive to learning and growth. This dedication to stability and progress allows the university to continue serving its students effectively while preparing for future leadership transitions.

Kondwani Phiri, the President at Grambling State University, architects the overarching vision and strategic goals for the institution. Overseeing the academic mission and institutional growth, the President ensures that the university meets the rigorous standards required by its 13 accrediting associations. This leadership role involves representing the university to external partners and the Louisiana Board of Regents to secure support for academic programs. By fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, Kondwani Phiri drives the university toward its long-term objectives. The President collaborates with the executive team to align resources with the institutional mission of providing high-quality education. Through strategic decision-making and community engagement, Phiri strengthens the university's position as a leader in higher education. This commitment to institutional advancement ensures that the university continues to empower students and contribute to the broader academic landscape.

Martin Lemelle, the President at Grambling State University, directs the strategic development and operational expansion of the university. Overseeing the implementation of academic policies and institutional initiatives, the President ensures that the university remains responsive to the needs of the student body and the requirements of accrediting bodies. This leadership role involves managing relationships with state officials and educational partners to enhance the university's impact. By prioritizing student success and faculty development, Martin Lemelle cultivates an environment of academic rigor. The President works closely with the Board of Regents to ensure compliance and excellence across all programs. Through visionary leadership and a focus on institutional sustainability, Lemelle guides the university toward achieving its strategic goals. This dedication to the university's mission ensures that the institution remains a cornerstone of education and opportunity for its students.

Gary Poe, the President Faculty Senate at Grambling State University, represents the academic faculty in governance and policy discussions. Overseeing faculty concerns and academic standards, the President Faculty Senate ensures that the teaching staff has a voice in institutional decision-making. This leadership role involves collaborating with the administration to develop policies that support academic freedom and professional development. By facilitating communication between faculty and the university leadership, Gary Poe promotes a collaborative environment focused on educational quality. The President Faculty Senate monitors curriculum development and accreditation compliance to maintain the high standards expected of the university. Through active participation in university committees, Poe advocates for resources that enhance the teaching and research capabilities of the faculty. This commitment to shared governance ensures that the academic mission remains at the forefront of the university's strategic priorities.

Jay Ellis, the Chief Information Officer at Grambling State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the academic mission. Overseeing campus-wide network security and data management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty. This leadership role involves modernizing classroom technology to enhance learning outcomes across the Louisiana campus. By implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, Jay Ellis protects sensitive institutional data while supporting the broader educational goals of the university. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic departments to integrate innovative software solutions that streamline administrative workflows. Through strategic investment in hardware and cloud-based services, Ellis maintains a competitive technological environment. This commitment to digital transformation empowers the university to meet the evolving needs of a diverse student body while upholding the high standards expected of a historically Black institution.