09/17/2026
Yesterday, September 16, marked what would have been Ralph Kennedy Frasier Sr.’s 88th birthday—and the 71st anniversary of a court decision that helped change North Carolina’s history.
On September 16, 1955, his 17th birthday, a federal court ruled in favor of Ralph, his brother LeRoy Benjamin Frasier Jr., and John Lewis Brandon in *Frasier v. Board of Trustees of the University of North Carolina*. Their challenge to racial exclusion opened the way for them to become UNC-Chapel Hill’s first Black undergraduate students.
These young men sought an education and had to fight for the right to receive it. Their courage helped open doors for generations of students who followed.
Ralph went on to earn his undergraduate and law degrees from North Carolina Central University and build a distinguished career as an attorney, executive, and mentor. His commitment to opportunity and service extended far beyond that historic victory.
Today, we honor his birthday, his courage, and the life he devoted to helping others move forward.
Remembering Ralph Kennedy Frasier Sr. with gratitude and respect.