Meet Our Honorees

Meet our honorees at the 2024 GSU Kicks Ball! We are thrilled to highlight their outstanding accomplishments and celebrate their remarkable contributions. These individuals have made a significant impact in their respective fields, and we’re proud to recognize them at this special event!

OLIVIA DYER

STUDENT EXCELLENCE

The Student Excellence Award honors those who embody Grambling State University’s values through academic achievement, leadership, and service. We are proud to announce that Olivia Dyer, a senior Business Marketing major from Dallas, TX, will receive this prestigious award at the 3rd Annual Kicks Ball Gala, presented by adidas. A 2024 White House HBCU Scholar, Olivia’s dedication to fostering positive change on campus and within the community exemplifies her leadership and commitment to making a lasting impact. We celebrate her incredible achievements and look forward to her continued success!

DR. CONNIE WALTON

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

As Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Connie Walton exemplifies the dedication and leadership recognized by the Service Excellence Award, which honors faculty and staff who make significant contributions to campus and classroom environments. We are proud to announce that she will receive this prestigious award at the 3rd Annual Kicks Ball Gala, presented by adidas. Dr. Walton’s exceptional leadership, including her role as Interim President, has been vital to the growth and success of Grambling State University. Her unwavering commitment to guiding key initiatives and ensuring academic excellence has left a lasting impact on our community. This honor celebrates her invaluable contributions.

CARLISHA ROBINSON

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

As Chief Customer Officer at Beyond, Inc., Carlisha Robinson exemplifies the spirit of the Business Excellence Award, which recognizes professionals who achieve exceptional success while positively impacting Grambling State University. We are proud to announce that she will receive this prestigious honor at the 3rd Annual Kicks Ball Gala, presented by adidas. Her innovative leadership across major brands like Overstock, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Zulily has driven remarkable transformation within the organization. As a proud Grambling State alumna with a background in computer science and mathematics, Carlisha’s success story continues to inspire future generations.

TURNER CONSTRUCTION

COMMUNITY CHANGEMAKER

The Community Changemaker Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership and a commitment to creating positive change, and we are proud to announce that Turner Construction will receive this honor at the 3rd Annual Kicks Ball Gala, presented by adidas. Turner’s contributions to Grambling State University—including over $150,000 in scholarships over the past two years and hiring four GSU students—have had a transformative impact. Special thanks to Chris Compton, Jr., a Grambling alumnus, for helping foster this valued partnership. Turner’s dedication to empowering the next generation exemplifies true community leadership.