Grambling, La. — Grambling State University is proud to host its 2025 Distinguished 10 awards — an evening dedicated to elevating alumni who embody excellence in their professions, make meaningful community impact, and carry forward the Tiger legacy. This year’s class includes leaders across education, STEM, public service, entrepreneurship, and advocacy — each story a powerful testimony that success and service go hand in hand.
Here’s a look at the 2025 honorees who capture the spirit of what the Distinguished 10 seeks to celebrate.
Meet the Honorees
Dr. Joseph Carter
A trailblazer in alumni engagement and athletics, Dr. Carter served as the first president of the Grambling University Athletic Foundation, leading efforts to strengthen institutional support for sports and student development. His service extended into education leadership in the region, and throughout his career he has remained connected to the university’s growth and mission.
Dr. Melissa Walker
Dr. Walker is a respected life member of the Grambling alumni community recognized for her leadership, professional excellence, and civic commitment. Her inclusion among the Distinguished 10 reflects her long-standing dedication to lifting others and advancing the values instilled by her alma mater.
Dr. Constance Meadors
With a reputation for bridging science, entrepreneurship, and community outreach, Dr. Meadors has carved out a role as a STEM advocate. She uses her expertise not just to advance her field, but to open doors for underrepresented groups, mentoring and connecting individuals to opportunities they might not otherwise see.
Dr. Lestavia Duplantier
Dr. Duplantier’s career is emblematic of quiet power and sustained influence. While her public-facing narrative may be concise, her selection among the Distinguished 10 signals a lifetime of achievement, service, and leadership grounded in integrity and excellence.
Dr. Roderick Henderson
Dr. Henderson has built a record of distinguished performance and service that resonates with his community and his peers. His path is a reminder that excellence is often a steady climb forward — one founded on consistent contribution and leadership.
Mr. David Aubrey
A name synonymous with entrepreneurial leadership and innovation, Mr. Aubrey has spearheaded ventures that uplift communities and create opportunity. His journey reflects a commitment to economic development, job creation, and mentorship — showing that business acumen and service can go hand in hand.
Ms. Anika Perkins
Ms. Perkins is a dynamic force in social advocacy, community engagement, and leadership development. Her work centers on empowering underrepresented voices, organizing platforms for youth, and building coalitions across sectors. She is widely regarded as a mover — someone who brings people together for impact.
Ms. Ayanna Muhammad
With a background rooted in service, faith, and public engagement, Ms. Muhammad’s influence spans civic leadership, advocacy, and community upliftment. Her career reflects a passion for justice, educational access, and pathways for future leaders — always grounded in compassion and conviction.
Portia Singh
Singh has scored in reaching every goal set for herself, including earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from GSU and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. She currently serves as Chief Technology Officer at Vest Inc., an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh in the Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology and Technology Commercialization Lead in the Healthy Home Lab.
Mr. Pierre Perry
Mr. Perry rounds out the roster with a reputation for disciplined leadership, financial acumen, and community stewardship. Whether through board service, professional excellence, or philanthropic engagement, he exemplifies how steady influence and dedication can create lasting change.
Not only are these leaders inspirational but their legacies remind us: the roar of Grambling isn’t confined to stadiums. It lives in impact, purpose, and the horizons beyond these walls.