Chancellor McLeod’s Impact on Fayetteville State
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Chancellor Willis B. McLeod, who made history as Fayetteville State University’s first alumnus chancellor, passed away on October 29 at the age of 84. McLeod began his tenure at the university on November 15, 1995, and his leadership spanned nearly a decade, during which he significantly influenced educational opportunities and campus life.
Known for his approachability, McLeod frequently interacted with students on campus, listening to their concerns and bringing their issues to his administration. Perry Massey, who served as McLeod’s provost, recalled how the chancellor often followed up with him about student problems, emphasizing the importance of finding solutions. McLeod’s own experiences as a student at Fayetteville State shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by students.
From Activism to Academia
McLeod’s commitment to civil rights began long before he assumed the chancellorship. In 1963, he played a pivotal role in organizing protests for equal treatment in Fayetteville, an era marked by significant racial segregation. His leadership during these demonstrations caught the attention of Fayetteville State’s administration, notably President Rudolph Jones, who recognized McLeod’s potential to inspire his peers.
Reflecting on his activism years later, McLeod acknowledged how those experiences instilled in him the confidence to pursue leadership roles in education. He graduated in 1964 with a degree in mathematics, later becoming Northampton County’s first Black school superintendent before returning to his alma mater as chancellor.
Advancements Under His Leadership
During McLeod’s administration, Fayetteville State experienced considerable growth and development. He emphasized student success, community engagement, and the importance of faculty development. His vision included initiatives like the Freshman Year Initiative, launched in 1996, which aimed to support students in acclimating to college life and choosing their academic paths.
McLeod’s attention to detail extended to campus facilities and infrastructure, leading to the construction of new residential buildings and renovations across the campus. He actively sought partnerships with local schools and community colleges to enhance educational access.
Under his leadership, enrollment numbers at Fayetteville State rose significantly, reflecting the university’s growing reputation and appeal.
A Lasting Legacy
McLeod’s influence reached beyond the university as he advocated for historically Black colleges and universities at the national level. Even after retiring in 2003, he remained connected to Fayetteville State, supporting alumni and engaging with the university’s community.
His philosophy on leadership, which emphasized starting with small steps to achieve larger goals, resonated throughout his career. This mindset not only guided his actions but also inspired many students and faculty members.
A memorial service honoring Chancellor emeritus Willis B. McLeod is scheduled for November 14, 2026, at J.W. Seabrook Auditorium on the Fayetteville State University campus. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m., with interment at Resthaven Cemetery in Dunn, North Carolina. Refreshments will be provided following the service.
Source: Fayetteville State University
