RICHMOND, Va. — The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the nation's oldest historically Black athletic conference, announced that Virginia Union University legend Ralph "Pete" Hunter will be inducted as a member of the 2026 John B. McLendon Hall of Fame Class. The induction ceremony will take place during the 2026 CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament in Baltimore, Md.

Hunter is widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive backs in CIAA and NCAA Division II history, earning recognition for his versatility, instincts, and game-changing playmaking ability. He began his collegiate career as a wide receiver before transitioning to defense, where he excelled at multiple positions and became a cornerstone of Virginia Union's success.

During the 2001 season, Hunter helped lead the Panthers to the CIAA Championship while producing one of the most remarkable individual defensive campaigns in conference history. He recorded 11 interceptions and six blocked kicks, earning Black College All-American, AFCA All-American, and NCAA Division II All-American honors, cementing his status among the nation's elite defenders.

Following his collegiate career, Hunter made history as the only CIAA and the only NCAA Division II player selected in the 2002 NFL Draft. He went on to enjoy a six-year professional career in the National Football League with the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Seattle Seahawks, where he earned a starting role and delivered key performances in the postseason. Hunter later continued his professional journey in the Arena Football League and the Canadian Football League before transitioning into service-oriented and community leadership roles.

In recognition of his lasting impact on Virginia Union football, Hunter was inducted into the Virginia Union University Hall of Fame in 2021.

"Being inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor that I accept with deep gratitude and humility," said Hunter. "The CIAA represents excellence, tradition, and a legacy that helped shape who I am today. I share this honor with my teammates, coaches, family, and everyone who poured into me along the way. To be recognized among so many legends of this conference is truly special."

Virginia Union Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker, a former teammate and close friend of Hunter, praised the honor.

"As a friend and teammate, I couldn't be prouder of Pete—I truly can't think of anyone more deserving," Parker said. "Pete Hunter represents the very best of the CIAA. His impact goes far beyond the field, and this Hall of Fame honor reflects the legacy he's built and the lives he's touched."

"Hunter's induction further strengthens Virginia Union University's storied tradition of excellence within the CIAA and across the NCAA and the NFL," said Joe Taylor, VUU Vice-President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Community Wellness.  "We congratulate Pete Hunter and thank the CIAA conference for this recognition of  one of VUU's most accomplished student-athletes."

Hunter will be formally inducted at the annual Hall of Fame Ceremony, Friday, February 27, during the 2026 CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament.