Grambling, La. — A sense of history and celebration filled the campus of Grambling State University during its Spring 2026 Commencement Exercises at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, as the university commemorated 125 years of academic excellence and honored 42 members of the Spring 1976 graduating class during the Golden Graduates Reunion.
The two-day celebration brought alumni back for campus tours, special events, and recognition during commencement, allowing classmates to reconnect while witnessing the university’s continued growth and transformation.
For many members of the Class of 1976, the reunion was more than a celebration — it was a chance to reflect on Grambling State’s lasting impact on their lives and careers.
Golden Graduate Dr. Loretha Bradley recalled attending Grambling more than five decades ago with the help of scholarships secured through family encouragement.
“Like many Grambling students, I came from a poor family and didn’t have much,” Bradley said. “Two of my aunts were educators and reached out to Grambling and wrote letters trying to get me academic scholarships. So I got to attend for free.”
Bradley graduated summa cum laude and built a 36-year career with Allstate Insurance before earning advanced degrees in Christian Counseling and Religious Education. She now serves as a school administrator at Greenwood Acres Christian College in Shreveport.
“I’m glad they’ve kept a few buildings I recognize because so much of it has changed,” Bradley said.
Dr. Patricia Mitchell Marzett, a Chicago native who earned her degree in elementary education at Grambling, later earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership.
“Seeing the campus today, I’m amazed,” Marzett said. “I’m so proud of Grambling State University. It has come a long way. The camaraderie and love that exist here are special. We truly are GramFam.”
Nigel Davis, a Bastrop native and retired Federal Reserve Bank employee, praised the university’s progress.
“Technology is much more advanced now, and the continued construction and development across campus are impressive,” Davis said.
Monroe native Curtis Heard, who later served as finance director for the City of Monroe under Mayor Abe Pierce, reflected on the university’s growth.
“Things have changed so much,” Heard said.
Patricia Wilson of West Monroe, who spent nearly four decades in education, called the experience meaningful.
“Being back as a Golden Graduate is historical, and I just love it,” Wilson said.
Other honorees, including Maurice McGee and Eve Goins, also reflected on the emotional significance of returning to campus and witnessing the university’s continued progress.
Beyond celebrating their legacy, the Class of 1976 raised $25,500 to establish the Grambling State University Class of 1976 Endowed Scholarship Fund — the largest class gift ever raised to create an endowed scholarship at the university.
As Grambling State marks its 125th anniversary, the generosity and legacy of the Class of 1976 stand as a testament to the enduring spirit that has shaped the institution for more than a century and its continued commitment to preparing future generations of leaders.
