HERSHEY, Pa. — A recommendation is being considered to rename the Blue Band Building on the University Park campus after band Director O. Richard Bundy, who is retiring July 1 and has served as leader of the band for two decades and been associated with one of the nation’s most recognized collegiate bands for more than 30 years.
During its meeting today (March 19), the Penn State Board of Trustees Committee on Finance, Business and Capital Planning recommended renaming the facility the O. Richard Bundy Blue Band Building in honor of Bundy’s 32 years of service to the University. The full board will vote on the proposal on Friday (March 20).
Bundy, a professor of music in the College of Arts and Architecture, began his career with the Penn State Marching Blue Band in 1983, serving first as acting assistant director then assistant director starting in 1987. He was named director of athletic bands in 1996. In addition to directing the Blue Band and overseeing the college's other athletic bands, he is director of the Concert Band and teaches courses in conducting, marching band techniques, instrumental music education and band literature.
Bundy holds undergraduate and doctoral degrees in music education from Penn State and in 2013 was named an Alumni Fellow, the highest award given by the Penn State Alumni Association. The College of Arts and Architecture is conducting a nationwide search for his replacement.