As executive director for the inaugural Celebration Bowl, John T. Grant Jr. ’79 was responsible for the strategy, implementation, and operations of the bowl, including sponsorship development.

“I was blessed to be in the right place at the right time with the right experience,” Grant said.

With a distinguished history of professional success and leadership, Grant led the 100 Black Men of Atlanta as chief executive officer from 2001-2015. He joined that organization in 1988 at age 30, becoming their youngest member. Among his myriad of awards and accolades, Grant most recently was selected as an inductee into the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau’s 2015 Hospitality Hall of Fame.

Even with his extensive leadership background, the timing of the bowl presented unique challenges. “The bowl is by far my most ambitious undertaking,” said Grant. “I’m proud we were able to pull the event together in an unheard of three and a half months. Working with a dedicated group of people and volunteers, including the ESPN Events team, was a highlight. Also having SportsCenter on The Road broadcast from the bowl and ABC telecast the game were huge pluses.”

For Grant, the Celebration Bowl is not just another football game. “I see the Celebration Bowl as a critical opportunity that will make a difference for historically black colleges and universities for years to come.”

Making a difference is part of Grant’s DNA. He was named one of the 50 most influential nonprofit leaders by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in 2014 and 2015. Grant has also served on numerous boards, including the Georgia Humanities Council, the National Wildlife Federation Executive Committee, the Atlanta Sports Council, and the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“I believe we all have a responsibility to be engaged in meaningful ways to make a difference in the places where we live, work and play,” Grant said. “We also should always offer the best of who we are in everything that we do. I was taught by my parents the value and benefits of hard work. That is the key to success.”

And for Grant’s many successes, he also credits North Carolina A&T State University as one of the experiences in his life that prepared him for his future.

“My education at N.C. A&T provided a sense of pride in my ability to make a difference and provided a road map and foundation to making it happen,” said Grant. “College years are an important developmental period for a young person. I grew into myself with the assistance of many professors who were committed to my growth as a person. I thank all my professors who saw the potential in me before I saw it in myself.”

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