know, I have to. I have to be the first one to do it.'"
His campaigns were anything but ordinary.
Leadership, however, has not been without challenges.
Ambition alone did not fuel his journey.
Griddine developed a comprehensive student-centered marketing strategy that combined traditional campaigning with digital engagement. He designed campaign flyers, built a strong social media presence, and met students where they were—both online and across campus. Nearly 50 student volunteers joined his campaign, helping distribute materials, engage classmates in conversation, share campaign messages on social media, and maintain a visible presence throughout the university. "Those efforts helped me reach a broad audience of students and ultimately earn the opportunity to serve as the 27th Mister NCCU," he said. Service has remained at the heart of every leadership position Griddine has held. He has organized events connecting students with employers and career opportunities, educated students on financial literacy and long-term wealth creation, and advocated daily for initiatives that enhance the student experience. Listening to students, supporting their personal and professional growth, and creating opportunities for success have become hallmarks of his leadership.
"I had to be patient and respect my role while serving on someone else's court," he explained. "That experience taught me the importance of humility, teamwork, and trusting the leadership process." Outside of Royal Court, Griddine has continued expanding his leadership portfolio. He previously served as Area 3 District Director for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and as vice president of the Gamma Beta Chapter, experiences that further strengthened his commitment to collaborative leadership and service. Those around him recognized his leadership potential long before he became Mister NCCU. "They see a lot within me," Griddine said. "They told me, 'You could really do this. You genuinely care about what you do, and you put a lot of effort into it.' I think that's really what fueled me and motivated me to do something like this." Now, as the 27th Mister NCCU, Griddine hopes his legacy will extend beyond the history books. He hopes students will remember that leadership is rooted in service. "I'm 100% committed to this," he said. "I'm actually trying to make a difference within the community."
"The Royal Court is more than an honorary group," Griddine said. "It is a team of student leaders dedicated to serving and representing the university." As official ambassadors, members of the Royal Court represent NCCU at campus, alumni, community and special events, collaborate with university leadership, support campus programming and advocate for the student experience. Whether representing NCCU in professional settings, participating in volunteer initiatives, or engaging with community partners, Griddine views himself as an ambassador for the university. "I represent NCCU by carrying the University's values into every space I'm in," he said. During his freshman campaign, he earned the title after competing against nine other candidates. Five students sought the Mister Sophomore title, and another student challenged him for Mister Junior. Although no one opposed him for Mister NCCU, Griddine viewed his final campaign as an opportunity to demonstrate that his leadership had earned the confidence of the campus community.
HBCU TIMES FALL ISSUE 2026 | 5 1
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