---
"title": "Former Southern band director Nathan Haymer resurfaces at another SWAC school"
"description": "Alabama A&M has added a familiar HBCU band figure to its operation. Nathan Haymer, the former Southern University band director, announced his arrival this week with a message rooted in reflection, accountability, and a desire for a fresh start. “Today, I begin a new chapter,” Haymer said in a statement posted to Facebook, expressing gratitude […]"
"date": "2026-06-26"
"authors":
  -
    "name": "HBCU Sports"
"url": "https://hbcusports.com/2026/06/26/former-southern-band-director-nathan-haymer-resurfaces-at-another-swac-school/"
"categories":
  - "Bands"
---

# Former Southern band director Nathan Haymer resurfaces at another SWAC school

Alabama A&M has added a familiar HBCU band figure to its operation. Nathan Haymer, the former Southern University band director, announced his arrival this week with a message rooted in reflection, accountability, and a desire for a fresh start. “Today, I begin a new chapter,” Haymer said in a [statement posted to Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/nbhaymer), expressing gratitude to Director of Bands William J. Young for the opportunity. “This opportunity means more than a new position. It’s a second chance to serve, to lead, to create, and to leave people better than I found them.”

### Nathan Haymer had professional setbacks

Haymer’s hiring comes after a period marked by professional setbacks and legal scrutiny that temporarily sidelined his career His tenure as band director at Southern ended in May of 2018, [when reports surfaced](https://www.wbrz.com/news/questionable-demands-by-band-director-likely-violated-state-ethics-laws/) that he allegedly violated state ethics laws by requesting personal payments from organizations after band performances. Haymer [pleaded guilty to a federal embezzlement charge](https://hbcusports.com/2020/06/30/report-former-southern-band-director-nathan-haymer-will-accept-plea-deal-on-felony-charges/) after a plea deal and was later sentenced to 13 month is prison in 2021.

### Haymer relishes second chance at Alabama A&M

Now, Alabama A&M is offering a path forward—one Hamer says he does not take lightly. “Life has a way of reminding us that every season has a purpose,” Haymer said. “Some seasons stretch you. Some humble you. And some prepare you for blessings you never saw coming.”

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In his statement, Haymer acknowledged that growth has come through adversity, emphasizing a renewed focus on service and accountability. “I’m not coming with all the answers,” he said. “I’m coming with gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to pour into young people and honor the legacy of this program every single day.” For Haymer, the moment represents both a professional reset and a personal test—one that will unfold under the scrutiny that often follows figures seeking redemption in collegiate athletics. “This opportunity,” he said, “is a second chance.”