Lemar Parrish Inducted into the National Black College Alumni 2024 Hall of Fame

Lemar Parrish was inducted into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame on September 28, 2024. Pictured from left to right: National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame (NBCA HOF) Foundation Chairman Mr. Quentin Roach, Miss NBCA HOF, Mr. Lemar Parrish and Dr. Grant Winrow, Lincoln University vice president for university advancement.

Lemar Parrish, Lincoln University Class of 1970 football legend and former NFL star, has been honored with induction into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta in Georgia. Dr. Grant Winrow, Lincoln University's vice president for university advancement, attended on behalf of the university and presented the Hall of Fame award to Parrish. 

At the ceremony, Parrish was celebrated for his outstanding contributions to the world of sports, joining an esteemed group of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) alumni recognized for their achievements.

Parrish, who played as a cornerback and return specialist in the NFL, enjoyed a remarkable 13-year career with the Cincinnati Bengals, Washington Redskins and Buffalo Bills, earning eight Pro Bowl selections. His NFL career was defined by his versatility and playmaking ability. Over his career, Parrish amassed 47 interceptions, 13 return touchdowns and was considered one of the premier cornerbacks of his time. During his six seasons with the Bengals, he had 25 interceptions, ranking fifth in franchise history, and was known for his electrifying punt and kick returns, setting team records for return touchdowns and single-season averages.

His contributions to Lincoln University football remain legendary, with his number 20 jersey retired by the Blue Tigers. A four-year letter-winner from 1966-69, Parrish helped lead Lincoln to 23 victories and set numerous records, including the longest punt return in school history at 95 yards. His stellar 1969 season saw him earn All-American honors, further cementing his legacy in Lincoln's football history.

Mr. Lemar Parrish with former classmate Mr. Hardy Dorsey, Lincoln Class of 1969, at the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame induction on Sept. 28, 2024. Retired corporate executive, business owner and philanthropist, Mr. Dorsey was a 2014 inductee of the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame for community service.

Enshrined in Lincoln University's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012 and named to the Cincinnati Bengals' All-Half Century Team in 2017, Parrish’s legacy continues to shine brightly through this latest honor from the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame.