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, resource allocation, and long-term economic strategy, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures the university maintains compliance with all 13 accrediting associations. This leadership role involves balancing operational costs with the need for continued investment in academic programs and campus infrastructure. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditure patterns, Barry Pearson directly influences the financial stability of the university. Pearson collaborates with the Board of Regents to ensure fiscal transparency and accountability across all departments. Through strategic financial planning, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to support the university's mission. This role remains essential for navigating the complex economic landscape of higher education while fostering an environment where academic programs thrive through prudent and sustainable fiscal management.

Kenyatta Shamburger, the Chief Operating Officer at Grambling State University, directs all internal administrative functions and campus infrastructure initiatives. Overseeing the daily operational efficiency of the university, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that institutional resources align with the broader academic mission. This leadership role involves managing complex logistical frameworks to support the historically Black university's growth and operational stability. By optimizing campus services and facility management, Kenyatta Shamburger directly impacts the quality of the student experience and faculty support systems. Shamburger coordinates with other executive leaders to implement strategic policies that enhance institutional effectiveness across the Louisiana campus. Through rigorous oversight of operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards required by the Louisiana Board of Regents, ensuring that all administrative processes contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of the university's diverse educational programs.

Tenasia Fields, the Office Manager To Chief Operating Officer at Grambling State University, coordinates administrative workflows and communication channels within the executive office. Managing the daily schedule and correspondence for the Chief Operating Officer, the Office Manager To Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless information flow between departments. This role involves organizing critical documentation and facilitating meetings that drive institutional decision-making processes. By streamlining administrative tasks, Tenasia Fields supports the operational efficiency of the university's leadership team. Fields maintains professional standards in all office interactions, ensuring that the executive office functions as a central hub for campus coordination. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Office Manager To Chief Operating Officer supports the broader strategic goals of the university, allowing leadership to focus on high-level institutional priorities. This position remains vital for maintaining the organizational structure necessary to uphold the university's long-standing commitment to academic excellence and administrative integrity.

Martin Lemelle, the President at Grambling State University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Leading the university's engagement with external stakeholders, the President drives initiatives that uphold the institution's status as a premier historically Black university. This leadership role involves setting the academic agenda, fostering community partnerships, and ensuring the university meets all requirements set by the Louisiana Board of Regents. By championing the university's mission, Martin Lemelle influences the growth and reputation of the institution on a national scale. Lemelle works closely with the Board and other executive leaders to implement policies that enhance student outcomes and faculty development. Through decisive leadership, the President ensures that the university remains a beacon of academic achievement. This role requires balancing the preservation of historical values with the necessity of modern innovation, ultimately guiding the university toward a future defined by excellence, inclusivity, and sustained institutional impact.

Gary Poe, the President Faculty Senate at Grambling State University, represents the collective voice of the academic staff in institutional governance. Overseeing the faculty senate's deliberations, the President Faculty Senate ensures that academic policies and curriculum standards align with the university's mission. This leadership role involves facilitating dialogue between the faculty and the administration to promote shared governance and academic freedom. By advocating for the needs of the teaching staff, Gary Poe directly impacts the quality of instruction and the overall academic environment. Poe collaborates with other university leaders to address faculty concerns and contribute to the development of institutional strategies. Through active participation in policy discussions, the President Faculty Senate helps maintain the rigorous standards required by the university's accrediting bodies. This position remains critical for fostering a collaborative culture where faculty expertise informs the strategic direction of the university, ensuring that academic excellence remains the primary focus of all institutional operations.

DeCorian Jones, the Freshman Class President at Grambling State University, serves as the primary representative for the incoming student body. Overseeing student-led initiatives and campus engagement programs, the Freshman Class President ensures that the needs and perspectives of new students reach the university administration. This leadership role involves organizing events that foster community and school spirit, helping to integrate new students into the university culture. By acting as a liaison between the freshman class and the student government, DeCorian Jones promotes active participation in campus life. Jones works with student leaders to address concerns and advocate for resources that enhance the first-year experience. Through these efforts, the Freshman Class President contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of the university. This role remains essential for developing future student leaders and ensuring that the student voice remains a central component of the university's ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive educational environment for all.