HOUSTON – Texas Southern University Provost Dr. James W. Ward announced Wednesday that he has accepted the resignation of Prof. Richard Lee, director of the school's "Ocean of Soul" marching band. Lee will continue to teach classes and serve the school in other ways.
"I want to thank Professor Lee for 22 years of exceptional service to the band and our students," Ward said. "He has always been, and continues to be, the consummate professional and gentleman. And for that, the university is forever grateful."
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Lee received many local, state, national and international honors while leading the band. The "Ocean of Soul" band appeared at the Honda Battle of the Band Challenge in Atlanta and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. It also performed for the City of Houston, METRO, NFL and NBA sports teams and more.
Lee earned his bachelor's degree in music education from Texas Southern University and was a member of the first "Ocean of Soul" ban under Benjamin J. Butler. He is a member of the Ocean of Soul Hall of Fame and Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.