Grambling State University Makes History, Hires First Female Band Director

Grambling State University proudly announces the historical appointment of its first female band director and she's a graduate of the university. "She is a proven gift to our students," the university's president says.

For the first time in the history of Grambling State University, a woman has been appointed as its band director.

MAKING HISTORY

Dr. Nikole Roebuck, a graduate from Grambling is making headlines as she accepts her new role as Chair of the Department of Music and Director of Bands of her alma mater. Roebuck’s appointment marks a milestone in the university’s history since she’ll be the first woman in its band’s 93 years to occupy the position.

“Dr. Roebuck is one of our most dedicated and humble leaders. She is a proven gift to our students."

Roebuck follows the lead of two other women in the history of black colleges to be appointed as band director. These are Tomisha Brock of Clark Atlanta University, appointed in 2017, and Dr. Kerry Anne Simon of Mississippi Valley State who assumed the same role in May 2019.

A WELL-DESERVED APPOINTMENT

According to a press release issued by Grambling University and featured by HCBU Gameday, Roebuck’s appointment is well-deserved. The school’s president, Rick Gallot had this to say,

“Dr. Roebuck is one of our most dedicated and humble leaders. She is a proven gift to our students, community, and all who support the world-famed sound of Grambling.”

MORE OF HER CREDENTIALS

A graduate of Grambling’s Music Education program in 2001, Roebuck’s credentials also include a Master’s degree in Music from the University of Louisiana-Monroe (2005) and a Doctorate in Philosophy in Music Education from the University of Memphis (2009). She’s been a music professor and assistant band director in Grambling for 12 years and boasts of performances for the NBA, ESPN, presidential inaugurations and several national brands.

June 1 marks Roebuck’s first day on the job which will require her to supervise the university’s world-famous Tiger Marching Band. The band made waves in April when it performed with Beyonce for Adidas.