History of The Roy Griggs School of Business, Inc.
Founding, Inspiration & Impact
In 2020-2021, Roy Griggs School of Business (RGSB) was conceptualized to bridge the gap between academic business education and real-world entrepreneurial success, particularly for underrepresented communities. Recognizing this need, Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) sought to partner with a long-time advocate for education and economic growth—Roy Griggs. His proven track record as a highly successful businessman, coupled with his commitment to mentorship, professional training, and workforce development, made him the ideal partner for establishing a business school. The RGSB would serve as a launching pad for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Roy Griggs’ journey to success serves as a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and mentorship. Growing up in Meridian, Mississippi, he had no early exposure to business ownership, but through dedication and mentorship, he became a successful entrepreneur. Beginning his career as a crew member at McDonald’s at age 18, he worked his way up to becoming the first Black manager at a store in Meridian. Recognizing his potential, his franchise owner became a mentor and encouraged him to dream bigger.
By 1989, Griggs moved his family to Thomasville, Alabama, where he opened his first McDonald’s franchise, Griggs Enterprises, Inc. Despite early challenges, he remained committed to excellence and leadership, eventually expanding his ownership to 17 McDonald’s franchises in Northwest Louisiana and East Texas. At the peak of his career, he managed nearly 1,000 employees and generated an annual revenue of $32 million.
Roy Griggs forged a transformative partnership with Southern University at Shreveport’s (SUSLA) Division of Community and Workforce Development, led by Vice Chancellor Janice B. Sneed, to expand educational and professional opportunities for his employees. In 2004, this collaboration secured $500,000 through Louisiana’s Incumbent Worker Training Program, equipping Griggs Enterprise employees with advanced skills and pathways for career growth. Recognizing the impact of workforce development, SUSLA and Griggs Enterprise later launched the Business Leadership Intern Program, preparing students for supervisory and management roles within his McDonald’s franchises while providing hands-on experience in office management and business technology at the company’s corporate offices. Through his commitment to education and workforce training, Griggs’ investment helped bring millions of dollars to the university, empowering hundreds of employees to advance into management and business ownership. His legacy extends far beyond his restaurants—he stands as a model of entrepreneurial success, mentorship, and leadership development, inspiring future generations of business professionals.
Laying the Foundation: Concept, Vision, Funding Goal & Key Leaders
The Roy Griggs School of Business was established thanks to the leadership and combined efforts of dedicated leaders from the education and business communities. Under the leadership of then-Chancellor Dr. Rodney A. Ellis, SUSLA’s Chief Advancement Officer, Stephanie K. Rogers, led the project by working directly with Roy Griggs and members of SUSLA’s Business Department’s faculty to develop the concept, vision, and foundational structure of RGSB. Griggs Enterprises’ Jean Mosley and AT&T Louisiana President David Aubrey rounded out the project’s leadership team as Campaign Co-Chairs for the three-year, $3 million fundraising initiative.
The Campaign initiatives included securing funding to renovate the dedicated space within the Jackson Building where the business program is housed. Planned enhancements include state-of-the-art classrooms, modern meeting spaces, and hands-on business training labs that simulate real-world environments.
Community Announcement, Ribbon Cutting, & Reception
On October 1, 2021, Southern University at Shreveport announced plans to establish the Roy Griggs School of Business to the community. The announcement recognized Roy Griggs for his commitment to expand access to business education and formally launched the silent phase of the $3M Campaign fundraising.
In May 2021, during Bayou Classic Weekend at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, SUSLA and SU System leadership formally announced the public phase of the campaign to establish the Roy Griggs School of Business at SUSLA’s main campus on MLK Drive. The event featured the unveiling of a $250,000 pledge from Roy Griggs, matched by $250,000 in pledges from private and corporate donors for a total of $500,000. During the event, SUSLA Chancellor Dr. Rodney Ellis highlighted that plans include enhancing business education by providing modern classrooms, meeting spaces, and advanced training centers that replicate real-world office environments to support students pursuing business careers.
On June 24, 2022, under the leadership of President Dr. Ray L. Belton, the Southern University System Board of Supervisors and SUSLA leadership officially cut the ribbon and unveiled the Roy Griggs School of Business. Local SUS Board Members Sam Gilliam and Richard Hilliard, and other community and business leaders were in attendance.
In May of 2024, Roy Griggs established The Roy Griggs School of Business, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization to help fortify and diversify funding streams for the program to support fiscal sustainability. The mission of this independent nonprofit is to enhance lives by expanding access to business education, degree attainment, training certifications, and career exploration.
In October 2024, under the leadership of Chancellor Dr. Aubra Gant, SUSLA hosted a special reception to celebrate the continued impact of the Roy Griggs School of Business. The event demonstrated Dr. Gant’s commitment to strengthening partnerships and enhancing business education and workforce development. The event highlighted the ongoing success of the business school, featured testimonials of graduates of the program, the expansion of its academic offerings, and its role in strengthening workforce and economic opportunities for students.
RGSB’s Legacy & Future
Looking ahead, the Roy Griggs School of Business (RGSB) is committed to expanding its reach, increasing scholarship opportunities, and fostering innovation in business education. The establishment of The Roy Griggs School of Business, Inc., a nonprofit organization, marks a significant step toward long-term sustainability, ensuring that business education remains accessible for generations to come.
Future initiatives will focus on:
- Expanding Corporate & Community Partnerships
RGSB will continue strengthening relationships with business leaders, local industries, and national corporations to provide students with real-world exposure, internships, and mentorship opportunities. These partnerships will also help shape relevant curriculum, ensuring students gain the skills needed for today’s evolving business landscape. - Advancing Grant Development & Funding Opportunities
To enhance financial sustainability and program growth, RGSB will actively pursue grant funding and strategic investments. These funds will support student scholarships, faculty development, program expansion, and cutting-edge business training initiatives, ensuring continued access to high-quality education and professional development. - Workforce Development & Career Readiness
Enhancing specialized training programs that align with current and emerging job market demands, equipping students with skills in financial literacy, marketing strategies, and business analytics. - Scholarship & Endowment Growth
Launching a dedicated scholarship and endowed fund initiative to provide financial assistance for underrepresented students pursuing business careers.
With unwavering support from the university, business leaders, and the community, RGSB will continue to empower future generations of business professionals and entrepreneurs. Through education, mentorship, and strategic industry partnerships, the school remains steadfast in its mission to drive economic growth and career advancement.