The Alabama A&M University Marching Maroon & White has announced the appointment of Nathan B. Haymer as the program’s new arranger, bringing one of the most recognizable names in HBCU band culture back into a prominent collegiate role.
Haymer previously served as director of bands at Southern University, where he helped elevate the nationally acclaimed Human Jukebox before his tenure came to an abrupt end.
In 2021, Haymer was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to federal program theft involving funds intended for Southern University’s band program. He was also ordered to pay more than $78,000 in restitution and serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors said he submitted false and forged invoices for band-related expenses between 2016 and 2018.
Haymer’s hiring is likely to generate discussion throughout the HBCU band community. Supporters may point to his musical talent and influence as an arranger, while others will question the decision given his criminal conviction and its impact on Southern University’s celebrated band program.
As of now, Alabama A&M has announced Haymer’s role as arranger but has not publicly addressed his prior conviction.
