Grambling, LA – In October, Grambling State University (GSU) recognized its second class of Distinguished 10 alumni honorees, a distinction presented to alumni who have demonstrated excellence in their occupational fields and communities.
Recently, one of those honorees joined her husband in recognizing what being a Grambling State graduate means to them by establishing a $20,000 endowment in their name.
Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond and her husband Dr. James Hammond, both former educators, established the endowment to help GSU students follow in their footsteps toward a brighter future.
“We began our career as educators,” Cynthia Jackson-Hammond said. “We have been teachers, school directors, Superintendents of school systems, higher education faculty, administrators, and a college president (she served as president at Central State University from 2012-20). We offer our resources to an aspiring educator.”
“There is no more important job other than that of an educator. Our future depends on the education profession to prepare children to be responsible citizens and contributors to the public good.”
She said it was important for her and her husband to give back to the university that fostered their success in life.
“Grambling State University is a premier institution that has always been committed to thousands who needed an opportunity to grow, develop, and progress,” Cynthia Jackson-Hammond said.
“Grambling State University gave that opportunity to my parents, Milton and Irene Jackson, my sister, Marva Rae McHenry, my brother, Michael V. Jackson and to both of us. Countless family members have attended this phenomenal space and achieved unimaginable levels of success internationally, nationally and within their respective communities.”
“With the success that we have achieved, we have a responsibility to support the many students that have the drive and commitment to be the best that they can be! It is our responsibility to give back and uplift.”
Jackson-Hammond said she hopes the gift presented to GSU will encourage others to join in on the support she and her husband are giving to the university.
“Grambling State University alumni are ardent supporters … but I implore alumni to ask, ‘Can I do more?’ We would encourage you to think about the year that you graduated and give that amount each year,” she said. “For instance, if you graduated in 1980, then begin by contributing $1,980 annually. Be a part of supporting the next generation of Gramblinites. They will make all of us proud!”
