GRAMBLING, La. — Grambling State University announced Friday that Dr. Nikole Roebuck will lead as the University’s new Chair of the Department of Music and its first woman Director of Bands. Dr. Roebuck’s work will include overseeing operations for the World-Famed Tiger Marching Band which was recognized globally in April 2019 after performing for Beyoncé and Adidas.
“We are excited to have one of our homegrown innovators lead during this historic time,” said President Rick Gallot. “Dr. Roebuck is one of our most dedicated and humble leaders and a proven gift to our students, community, and all who support the world-famed sound of Grambling.”
Dr. Roebuck will serve as the first woman Director of Bands in the 93-year history of the University’s band which was started in 1926. She will serve as the third woman band director in the history of historically black colleges and universities, joining Tomisha Brock of Clark Atlanta University and Dr. Kerry Anne Simon of Mississippi Valley State University who were appointed in 2017 and in May 2019, respectively. Her appointment will also make her the second woman band director in the history of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
A native of Minden, LA and 2001 graduate of the University, the 18-year music professor’s work includes performances for the NBA, ESPN, presidential inaugurations, and numerous national brands.
Dr. Roebuck is a graduate of Grambling State University’s Music Education program who received her Master of Music from the University of Louisiana-Monroe in 2005 and her Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education from the University of Memphis in 2009.
During her time as a student at Grambling State, where she met her husband Esonyo and joined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, she served as a member and student leader of the university marching band she helps leads today.
Roebuck, who has taught at the University for 12 years while serving as an assistant band director, will officially assume her new post on June 1, 2019.
Courtesy: GSU Media
