By By Steve Gillespie/The Meridian Star
June 14, 2001
Ronnie C. Posey told his students he wouldn't ever considered going to another high school because he would consider that a step down. But, after serving as director of bands at Meridian High School since 1992, he felt East Mississippi Community College would be a good move.
Posey begins his director of bands position at EMCC July 1. He said the decision was a tough one because the students, band boosters and administration in Meridian are wonderful.
Posey replaces Bobbie Gibson at EMCC. She is retiring after seven years with the college.
Posey hopes to recruit more band members. He said EMCC has been the fastest-growing community college in the state for years and he feels the band and music programs can grow as well.
Posey has already held some try-outs at high schools within EMCC's district and has chosen a drum major for the coming school year, Garthia Halbert of Caledonia.
During his nine years at Meridian High School, the band was named one of the top 10 bands in the state by the Mississippi Sports Council, was selected to perform at the Gator Bowl in 1999, performed in exhibition at an NFL pre-season game in Jackson, received consistent Superior ratings in state concert festival competition and received all Superiors at the State Marching Festival each year.
Posey holds bachelor's and master's degrees in music education from Mississippi State University. He has been a member of the Mississippi Bandmasters Association, Band Directors of America, the National Federation of High School Band Directors and the Music Educators Association of America.
Originally from Starkville, Posey and his wife, Pam, live in Marion. They are members of Highland Baptist Church.
Steve Gillespie is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3233, or e-mail him at sgillespie@themeridianstar.com.