Grambling State University is set to make history with its first-ever investiture ceremony honoring Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. The ceremony will take place on Friday, Sept. 6, at 9:00 a.m. in the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.
Investiture ceremonies date back to the Middle Ages when a new leader was formally vested with the powers of office. This ceremony marks a pivotal step in Dr. Lemelle’s journey, a third-generation alumnus who is dedicated to advancing higher education.
In February, The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors appointed Dr. Lemelle as the university’s 11th president. He brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to educational excellence. He is reportedly the youngest president among the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and is already making waves in his leadership role.
The Lemelle Impact
Before stepping into the presidency, Lemelle served as Grambling’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. He accomplished remarkable strides, including securing the university’s largest corporate gift and boosting its fiscal health score by 200%.
Dr. Lemelle also served as executive vice president and chief financial officer at the Maryland Institute College of Art. During his tenure, he not only enhanced operations at the historic institution but also demonstrated adept financial management.
His extensive background includes managing large-scale budgets. He has collectively overseen approximately $6.5 billion across various prestigious organizations, including PricewaterhouseCoopers, IBM, and General Electric.
Dr. Lemelle holds a B.S. in accounting from Grambling State University, and a M.B.A. from George Washington University. He also earned a doctorate in business administration from SKEMA Business School in Paris, France. He is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and the United Way of Central Maryland Board of Directors.
The public is invited to attend the investiture ceremony free of charge.
