Dr. Willie Larkin is leaning on his experiences in motivational speaking to rally the Grambling State University student body. Larkin was named the ninth president of Grambling late Thursday afternoon.
"I'm really impressed with the students," says Larkin, "I can tell they are focused and committed to their education." The chief of staff to the president of Morgan State University reveals that becoming president at a university had been a long-time goal. But, he says, he wanted it to be at a university with a strong history and tradition.
Grambling's opening immediately caught his interest.
Larkin says he's prepared to address the challenges that face so many colleges today. "The times we live in, where money is hard to get, especially from state legislatures. We have to find alternative methods of raising money and resourcing the university," he said.
Following Thursday's selection, Larkin met with leaders of Grambling's Alumni Association. He says he's excited about crafting a message and sharing successes with the GSU family in coming months.
First though, is to listen and learn about the campus and community. A process Larkin is counting on to help him create excitement and opportunity in leading Grambling into the future.
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