Delaware State University, the historically Black educational institution in Dover, has announced the suspension of all band music groups, including the Approaching Storm Marching Band, amid allegations of hazing. The marching band will not perform at the university last home football game on November 23. Performances by the Delaware State University Jazz Ensemble, the Concert Band, and the Pep Band have been suspended for the remainder of the fall semester.
The details of the hazing allegations have not been released, but the university stated that no serious injuries occurred as a result of the alleged hazing.
Alton Thompson, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Delaware State University, issued a statement which read in part: “The university takes these allegations of hazing very seriously, and as such, taking action immediately to suspend the band activities and thoroughly investigate the veracity of the charges is the only appropriate course.”
