Jovon Milford Tabbed As New Director Of Athletic Bands For Limestone University

Limestone University has named Jovon Milford as the new Director Athletic Bands. With over a decade of experience in public school music education and college/university level instruction, Milford brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

“I am beyond excited to bring a versatile and a fresh perspective for gameday excitement at Limestone,” said Milford, who officially begins his new duties in Gaffney on August 1. “I am grateful to Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Hailey Martin and the administration at Limestone for providing me with this incredible opportunity.”

Prior to joining Limestone, Milford served as Allen University’s Director of Bands and Director of the Percussion Ensemble. In that role, he oversaw the percussion department, instructed the percussion ensemble, taught applied percussion, oversaw the day-to-day operations of the Band of Gold, and shared his expertise in marching percussion techniques.

Serving as a high school percussion instructor, Milford led three ensembles from Wilson High School and Sumter High School to the South Carolina State Finals Championship.

“It is evident that Jovan’s transformative leadership style and unparalleled dedication to the advancement of music education have been evident throughout his career,” Martin noted. “Our program and our students will benefit tremendously from his approach to music education and his creation of an exciting gameday experience for our Saints and our fans. His passion for spirit for marching band made this an easy choice for Limestone. Jovon brings an abundance of musical and educational experiences, and we enthusiastically anticipate the growth of our bands under his leadership.”

In his new role as part of Limestone Athletics, Milford will report directly to Martin. He will be responsible for comprehensive directorship of the program, leading and managing all aspects of Athletics bands. His responsibilities will include performance planning and execution, skill instruction, growing the marching band program, and coordinating the recruitment of prospective students. Milford will develop and articulate a clear vision and goals for the band program in alignment with Limestone’s mission and values.

Milford has performed at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention in Indianapolis, with a percussion ensemble that made history as the first African American symphonic group to perform at the prestigious event.

“His accomplishments as a seasoned performer are a testament to his remarkable skill and artistry in the field of music,” Martin said. “With his exceptional leadership, unparalleled accomplishments, and unwavering dedication to music education, Jovon is poised to make a lasting impact as the new Director of Athletic Bands at Limestone University.”

Beyond his collegiate responsibilities, Milford also serves as a Chapter Officer for the South Carolina Percussive Arts Society, orchestral percussionist for the Colour of Music Black Classical Musicians Festival, and the South Carolina Brass Band. His dedication to music education is reflected in his diverse teaching experiences, which include serving as an assistant director of bands, teaching general music, and instructing various high school percussion programs throughout the Southeast.

An active member of esteemed organizations such as Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity, The Racial Diversity Alliance Subcommittee, and the Percussive Arts Society, Milford is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the music community. Additionally, he endorses Grover Pro Percussion, Remo Drum Heads, Zildjian Cymbals, and Vic Firth sticks and mallets, further solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the music industry.

Milford earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Instrumental Music (Percussion Performance) from Benedict College, his Master of Arts degree in Higher Education from Ashford University, and his Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Liberty University.