Grambling State University is a historically black university located in the heart of Grambling, Louisiana. The history of the Gambling State University dates back to 1896 when the North Louisiana Colored Agriculture Relief Association, an organization formed by African-American farmers in rural north Louisiana, came forth with an aim at organizing and operating a school for black youth. A small school was opened in the same year in west Grambling. The initial step to build an industrial school was taken by Charles P. Adams, who became the first president. Under his leadership, the Colored Industrial and Agricultural School was opened in November 1901. Four years later, in 1905, the industrial school was moved to its present location and renamed as North Louisiana Agricultural and Industrial School. In 1928, the school became a state junior college and renamed as Louisiana Negro Normal and Industrial Institute. The first baccalaureate degree was awarded in 1944, in elementary education. The college again was renamed as Grambling College, in 1946. The addition of curricula in sciences, liberal arts and business eventually led to the transformation of this single purpose institution into a multipurpose college. With the addition of several new graduate level programs and state-of-the-art facilities, the college gained the university status, in 1974. Presently, a constituent institution in the University of Louisiana System, Grambling State University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). More than 800 courses and 68 degree programs in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees are offered through its four colleges of arts and sciences, business, education, and professional studies, and the School of Graduate Studies and Research. In addition, the university offers the only doctorate in developmental education in the nation. Grambling State University's Distance Learning Program, the first in the state to offer a bachelors degree, is a part of the Division of Continuing Education and Special Programs. It undertakes numerous programs and technical certifications that are conducted through latest technologies, such as satellite up-linking, compressed video, and the World Wide Web. In addition, the university operates two Mobile Automated Learning Labs, that provide community and worksite access to individualized and computerized instruction and learning. In addition to being a prominent center for education and research, Grambling State University also stands out for its sports and cultural activities. The university is also an active participant in intercollegiate athletic programs. The Tiger Marching Band, one of the most popular campus organizations, has been rated as the number one collegiate show band in the world. The Office of Alumni Affairs maintains relations with alumni, students, parents, friends, and supporters of the university. The university’s 384-acre campus has additional facilities such as 19 residence halls, dining hall, library, intramural center, health center, stadium, and an intramural sports center.