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Kentucky State University is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Rodney D. Chism, Sr. as the new Band Director for the Kentucky State University Mighty Marching Thorobred Band. Dr. Chism brings a wealth of experience, talent, and passion for music education, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the KSU family.

A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Chism is an accomplished musician and educator with an impressive background. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Music from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a Master of Music Education from Jackson State University, and a Doctor of Music Education from Liberty University. Additionally, he has pursued further studies at Tennessee State University, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Union University, the American Conservatory of Music, and the University of Memphis.

Dr. Chism is a dedicated and experienced band director with a deep  commitment to excellence in music education. His extensive  experience in directing bands at the junior high, high school, and college levels in the Memphis City Schools District has earned him a reputation as a superb bandmaster, disciplinarian, motivator, and teacher. His bands have consistently received superior and excellent ratings at state and local festivals, and he has arranged music for several schools and universities across the South, Southwest, Midwest, and East Coast.

"Dr. Chism embodies our commitment to 'Thorobreds Leading for Impact,' and we are excited to see the positive impact he will have on our students and the broader KSU family, said Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, President of Kentucky State University. "With Dr. Chism at the helm, I have no doubt that our Mighty Marching Thorobred Band will continue to thrive and make significant contributions to the cultural fabric of our campus and beyond.”

Beyond his work as an educator, Dr. Chism is a talented saxophonist who has had the privilege of playing with renowned artists such as Bobby Rush, Ellis Marsalis, Steve Turre, Wallace Roney, Al Jarreau, Donald Harrison, Clark Terry, Nyoki, Arturo Sandoval, Cassandra Wilson, Vivica A. Fox, Jasmine Guy, Con Funk Shun, the “Original” Lakeside, ZAPP, Midnight Star, the Ohio Players, and more. He is also the founder of the Big Band Memphis Professional Stage Band.

The Kentucky State University Mighty Marching Thorobred Band, the "heartbeat" of our program, has a rich history of excellence and achievement, including being voted "The 2019 Best Band in the Land" by the national HBCU Awards Committee. The band performs at all home football games, selected away games, and various parades and festivals. With Dr. Chism at the helm, we look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence and taking our band to new heights.

“I extend a warm welcome to Dr. Rodney Chism" said Dr. Michael D. Dailey, Provost and Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Kentucky State University. Dr. Chism’s extensive background in music education and his commitment to nurturing young talent will undoubtedly enrich our band program and our university. His track record of excellence as a band director, educator, and musician speaks volumes about his dedication to the arts and his students.”

Dr. Chism will appear with the Mighty Marching Thorobred Band this Saturday at 3pm at our Football Home Opener. For tickets to the 1886 Stable Club, please contact advancement@kysu.edu. To support the Mighty Marching Thorobred Band, please go to www.kysu.edu/givenow and write "Band" in the comment section.

We are excited to see the incredible impact Dr. Chism will make on our students, our Mighty Marching Thorobred Band and our entire campus community.