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McLeansville Today
By the People, for the People
Longtime North Carolina A&T Band Director to Retire After 40 Years
Dr. Kenneth Ruff has shaped generations of musicians at the university.
Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:04pm
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Dr. Kenneth Ruff, the director of University Bands at North Carolina A&T State University for over 40 years, will retire in June 2026. Ruff has led the Marching Band, Symphonic Bands, Concert Band, and Pep Bands, creating marching band drill designs and overseeing the entire band program.
Why it matters
Ruff's retirement marks the end of an era for North Carolina A&T's renowned band program, which has been a source of pride and tradition for the HBCU community. His leadership has left a lasting impact on HBCU band culture.
The details
Ruff earned degrees from North Carolina A&T and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Before becoming director of University Bands, he held various teaching and administrative positions at schools in the Greensboro area. Ruff is a member of several professional music fraternities and organizations.
- Ruff will retire in June 2026.
The players
Dr. Kenneth Ruff
The director of University Bands at North Carolina A&T State University for more than 40 years.
North Carolina A&T State University
The historically black college where Ruff has led the band program for over four decades.
The takeaway
Ruff's retirement will mark the end of an era for North Carolina A&T's renowned band program, which has been a source of pride and tradition for the HBCU community. His decades of leadership and dedication have left an indelible impact on generations of musicians.
