ELON, N.C. – Assistant Coach Fred Applin of the UNC Greensboro (UNCG) women's basketball coaching staff has been awarded the 2025 Eugene Perry '69 Distinguished Alumnus Award, on behalf of the Elon Black Alumni Network (EBAN).
 
The Elon Black Alumni Network awards Black alumni, faculty and staff members who have distinguished themselves in their professions and/or local communities, bringing honor to Elon through their support of EBAN events, initiatives, the Black Alumni Scholarship and Black students.
 
Mr. Eugene Perry graduated in 1969, making him Elon's first Black graduate, living during the civil rights movement.
 
"I am deeply honored to receive the 2025 Eugene Perry '69 Distinguished Alumnus Award," said Applin. "To be recognized in the name of Mr. Eugene Perry, Elon's first Black graduate and a pioneer who paved the way during the civil rights movement, is both humbling and inspiring. This award is a testament not only to my journey but also to the strength, resilience and excellence of the Black alumni community at Elon. I am grateful to Elon University and Elon Black Alumni Network for this recognition. I remain committed to uplifting and supporting future generations of students."
 
Applin graduated from Elon in 1985, competing in both football and track & field for the Phoenix and was a member of the 1981 NAIA National Championship football team. He went on to earn his master's degree in therapeutic recreation from North Carolina Central University in 1989.
 
Amongst other honors this year, Applin was also named to the A STEP UP Assistant Coaches Hall of Fame Class of 2025 in May.
 
Applin was a part of the coaching staff that most recently led UNCG women's basketball to its first NCAA Tournament since 1998. During the 2024-25 season, the Spartans won The Southern Conference (SoCon) Regular Season Championship and the SoCon Tournament. UNCG concluded the campaign with a 25-7 overall record and 13-1 conference mark. It was the winningest season in the Division I era and the best overall season in the SoCon.
 
Applin will be presented the Eugene Perry '69 Distinguished Alumnus Award during Elon's Homecoming weekend on Saturday, Oct. 11 in Elon, North Carolina. Additional guests may purchase a ticket for $25 through the Elon Homecoming website.