Dance & Aux Forum

Texas Southern University Provost Dr. James W. Ward has announced that he has accepted the resignation of University Professor Richard Lee, director of the university's "Ocean of Soul" Marching Band. Lee will continue to teach his classes and serve in other capacities at the university.

Provost Ward, in accepting Lee's resignation, states, "I want to thank Professor Lee for 22 years of exceptional service to the band and our students. He has always been and continues to be the consummate professional and gentleman and for that the university is forever grateful."

Mr. Lee has received several international, national, state and local honors, which has garnered the band media attention over the years, including appearances at the Honda Battle of the Band Challenge in Atlanta, appearances in Canton, Ohio for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement of TSU Alumnus Michael Strahan, performances for the City of Houston, METRO, professional NFL and NBA sports teams and more.

Lee is a native of Houston, Texas. He received his Bachelor's degree from Texas Southern University in music education. He was a member of the first "Ocean of Soul" band, under the direction of Benjamin J. Butler. While still a student at Texas Southern, he began his professional playing career in performances with Nancy Wilson. Lee is a member of the Ocean of Soul Hall of Fame and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.