Prairie View, Texas — It is with heavy hearts that the Prairie View A&M Athletic Department announces the passing of Fredrick Vaughn 'Fred' Newhouse, a beloved alumnus, accomplished athlete, and lifelong advocate for Prairie View A&M University athletics.
A native of Hallsville, Texas, and a current resident of Houston, Fred Newhouse's life was a remarkable journey of excellence, dedication, and service. A proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University, Fred earned a degree in Electrical Engineering before continuing his education at the University of Washington in Seattle, where he completed a Master's in International Business. Fred served honorably in the United States Army for two years between his undergraduate and graduate studies.
Fred's professional career spanned 38 years in the oil industry, culminating in his role as Regional Director of Public Affairs for Valero Energy's Houston and Texas City refineries. Over the years, he held various engineering, human resources, and public affairs roles with Valero and ExxonMobil, making impactful contributions across Texas, California, and Louisiana.
Fred's legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a two-time inductee into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame—first in 1992 as an individual and again in 1999 as a member of the 1968 NAIA Championship Indoor Track Team. A gold medalist in the 4x400 meter relay and a silver medalist in the 400 meters at the 1976 Olympics, Fred exemplified Panther Pride, bringing honor to Prairie View A&M University on the world stage.
In 2017, Fred received the prestigious Heliodoro and Patricia Rico Lifetime Achievement Award from USA Track and Field, a testament to his visionary leadership and enduring contributions to the sport.
"We have lost a true legend," said a representative of the Prairie View A&M Foundation. "Fred Newhouse was not only a distinguished alumnus but also a beacon of inspiration, embodying the values of hard work, excellence, and service. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Panthers."
The Prairie View A&M community joins together in honoring the life and contributions of Fredrick Vaughn 'Fred' Newhouse. He will forever remain a treasured part of Prairie View A&M's history and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites you to honor Fred Newhouse's enduring legacy by supporting the
Rhonda & Frederick Newhouse Endowed Scholarship Fund.
Your support will serve as a lasting tribute while celebrating his life of impact and commitment to excellence.
About Prairie View A&M Department of Athletics
The Prairie View A&M Athletics is located in Prairie View, Texas. The Panthers field eighteen teams including men's and women's basketball, cross country, golf, and indoor and outdoor track and field; women's-only bowling, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball; and men's-only baseball and football. The Panthers compete in the NCAA Division I and are members of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
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