Dr. Willis McLeod, Fayetteville State Chancellor and Civil Rights Leader, Dies
The former chancellor, who led the university from 1995 to 2003, also helped install a historic marker in downtown Fayetteville in 2023.
By Alessia Desai ·
Fayetteville State University announced on Friday morning the death of Dr. Willis B. McLeod. The university confirmed the passing in a post on Instagram, identifying McLeod as the first graduate of the institution to serve as its chancellor.
McLeod earned his degree from the university in 1964. He served as chancellor from 1995 until 2003. During that eight-year period, he focused on improving student outcomes and widening access to education. The university noted that he also worked to deepen the school’s relationships with the local Fayetteville community.
Beyond his administrative role, McLeod was a central figure in local civil rights history. In 1963, he led anti-segregation protests in the city. In June 2023, he joined other local civil rights leaders to unveil a marker in downtown Fayetteville. The monument marks the sites of the 1963 demonstrations and related social movements.
Speaking at the 2023 unveiling ceremony, McLeod expressed pride that the city was formally recognizing this period of history. University officials stated that they would release details about a memorial service when the information becomes available.
Source: WFXC
