Southern University fires popular band director, he says he is disappointed with decision

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- Ending days of limbo for its band director, Southern University on Tuesday fired Nathan Haymer, bringing his leadership of the famed Human Jukebox to an abrupt end.

Haymer broke the news in a statement issued about 4 p.m, and a university spokeswoman soon confirmed it. Haymer’s departure comes after an internal investigation prompted by a recent lawsuit accusing him of requesting a kickback in order for the band to appear at an event for public school children.

“It was my goal to uphold the prestigious legacy of the Human Jukebox by taking the band to greater heights of unprecedented success,” Haymer said in his statement. “I always took pride in being an ambassador for Southern University and at no time did I ever act in a nefarious manner by accepting ‘kickbacks’ as falsely reported by the media.

“Needless to say, I remain disappointed with the University’s decision and will weigh my legal options for further appeal. But at the end of the day, I will always and forever be a Jaguar!”

Haymer’s brother and attorney, Niles Haymer, said his brother received his termination notice about 4 p.m. Tuesday.

A few minutes later, Southern University President Ray Belton sent out his own letter addressed to the “Southern University Community.” He did not say why the university is firing Haymer. Belton allowed that “you may hear varying conversations of the matter," but said Southern will keep focusing on “upholding standards of accountability and transparency.”

“This departure is not an easy one, as Mr. Haymer has been a great asset to our students, band program and overall community,” Belton said.

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