Now in its 24th year, the Red River Athletic Conference is proud to announce its second Hall of Fame class with the addition of 16 inductees today. Through the Hall of Fame, the RRAC seeks to honor the individuals who have contributed to the launch and growth of the conference as administrators, coaches and student-athletes while achieving excellence in their roles.
Candidates were nominated by RRAC member institutions from the past and present. This year's list of inductees includes a mix of student-athletes, coaches, administrators and Tony Stigliano, the RRAC's commissioner and one of the conference's founders.
James Hilliard, Jr. Langston University (Okla.)Hilliard, Jr. coached 12 NAIA track & field individual and relay national champions during his time in the RRAC. From 2005-14, the Lions claimed eight RRAC women's track & field titles and four men's team championships. Hilliard's pupils included 154 NAIA All-Americans (70 women, 84 men), 300 all-conference selections and 77 RRAC individual champions. Hilliard, Jr. is in his 32nd season leading the Langston teams. Hilliard, Jr. also has the distinction of being inducted this year alongside Langston University Director of Athletic and former head women's basketball coach Donnita Drain-Rogers.
Inductees will be immortalized through a virtual Hall of Fame on the RRAC website in perpetuity, and they will be honored through ceremonies that will occur throughout the next year on school campuses.
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