CHARLOTTE, NC (October 15, 2025) — The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA®) joins the HBCU community in mourning the loss of Frederick O’Neal “Fred” Whitted, a respected historian, author, and longtime CIAA media member who passed away on October 3, 2025, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, at the age of 72.
For decades, Whitted was a fixture in the world of HBCU athletics, a storyteller, researcher, and voice of remembrance whose work preserved the legacy of countless student athletes, coaches, and institutions. His life’s mission was to ensure that the stories of Black college sports were not only told but celebrated.
Preserving the Story of the CIAA
Whitted’s name became synonymous with documenting HBCU and CIAA history. Through his books, archival projects, and unwavering passion, he brought to life the moments, milestones, and memories that shaped generations of student athletes.
He authored and maintained The Black College Sports Encyclopedia, publishing editions that documented the rich athletic history of CIAA member institutions and other Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country. His scholarship extended to The Rams’ House, a detailed chronicle of Winston Salem State University’s storied basketball tradition under legendary coach Clarence “Big House” Gaines.
Whitted also produced statistical and reference works such as the Black College Stat Pak and Black College Answer Book, providing valuable data and context that served as resources for journalists, historians, and educators. His meticulous research and deep knowledge were sought by filmmakers and media professionals, including contributors to ESPN’s Black Magic documentary on the history of basketball at HBCUs.
A Bridge Between Generations
To those who knew him, Fred Whitted was far more than a historian. He was a bridge between past and present. Whether behind a camera, in conversation, or in print, he made it his mission to connect today’s athletes and fans to the pioneers who paved the way.
He often reflected on the early days of CIAA basketball, when the conference provided a stage for Black excellence long before it was widely recognized. His recollections reminded others that the CIAA was not only a competitive conference but also a cultural movement that represented resilience, community, and pride.
His presence at CIAA tournaments and championship events became part of the tradition itself. Always with a camera, notebook, or microphone nearby, Whitted chronicled the stories others might overlook — the mentors, the fans, and the players who carried their schools’ legacies on and off the court. Through his words and work, he gave voice to a history that continues to shape the fabric of HBCU athletics.
A Legacy of Gratitude and Impact
Fred Whitted’s passing leaves an unmistakable void, but his legacy is enduring. The records he preserved, the stories he told, and the lives he impacted form an invaluable archive of HBCU and CIAA history.
“Fred’s work ensured that the heart of the CIAA, its people, its history, and its purpose, would never be forgotten,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. “He carried our story with care and pride, and his presence will be deeply missed. The passion and authenticity he brought to his work will forever remain part of who we are as a conference.”
The CIAA extends its deepest condolences to the Whitted family and all who were touched by his life and work. His dedication, passion, and love for this conference will forever remain part of its story.
Funeral Service Details
Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
Location: Family Fellowship Worship Center | 1016 Danbury Rd | Fayetteville, NC 28311
Viewing: 10:00 a.m.
Service: 11:00 a.m.
Media Contact:
Anna M. Butzlaff
Associate Commissioner, Strategic Communications
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)
abutzlaff@theciaa.com
About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first, and longest running, African American athletic conference in the U.S. and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management, the leading publication with the largest circulation of sports event planners and tournament directors in the sports tourism market, for both 2018 and 2019.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member institutions: Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Winston Salem State University.
For more information on the CIAA, visit theciaa.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.