Help Melissa raise money

I love Grambling State University because Grambling helped shape who I am personally, professionally, and in service to others.

As a proud member of the Class of 1993, I came to Grambling as a young woman from Franklinton, Louisiana, and left with so much more than a degree.  Grambling gave me lifelong friendships, leadership opportunities, a deeper commitment to service, and a village that continues to show up in my life.

While at Grambling, I was blessed to be a part of Voices of Faith and was also initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Both helped strengthen my foundation of faith, service, sisterhood, and purpose.  Those experiences, along with everything Grambling poured into me, continue to shape how I serve today.

I also know firsthand the impact alumni support can have.  Before I ever became a local alumni chapter president, before I served as National President of GUNAA, and before I had the honor of helping support students through this chapter, I was a scholarship recipient from my local alumni association in Franklinton, Louisiana.  That support mattered.  It reminded me that someone believed in me, invested in me, and wanted to see me succeed.

That is why this work is personal.

Today, I am honored to continue that legacy through the Marion B. Colter Greater Georgia Chapter of GUNAA, where my sister, Shunda Bickham, proudly serves as Chapter President.  Our chapter is committed to supporting Grambling students through scholarships, internships, student support, emergency gap assistance, band scholarships, high school recruitment, mentorship, and community service.

This is also a historic year for "our dear ole school".   We are celebrating 125 years of Grambling State University, 100 years of the World Famed Tiger Marching Band, and 100 years of Grambling Athletics.  That is legacy.  That is pride.  That is why we say, “We Are Grambling.”

When I served as National President of GUNAA, my motto was: "One Village. One Vision. One Mission. One Grambling."  I still believe that.  Our students need the village, and our alumni have the power to make a real difference.

I invite my GramFam, friends, family, and supporters to join me in giving.  Please consider a donation of $19.01 in honor of Grambling’s founding year, $125 in honor of 125 years of excellence, or any amount your heart leads you to give.

Every gift helps us support students, strengthen opportunities, and continue the legacy of a university "where everybody is somebody."

Thank you for supporting the Marion B. Colter Greater Georgia Chapter and the students at Grambling State University.

With Tiger Pride,

Melissa Bickham
Class of 1993