NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — The director of the Pride of Oklahoma band at the University of Oklahoma is leaving after full page advertisements in three newspapers criticized his leadership.
Justin Stolarik said in a news release Thursday that he's stepping down immediately after two years as band director. OU President David Boren said former band director Brian Britt will return as director and as associate dean of the College of Fine Arts.
Last week's ads by band members were paid for by band alumni. The members did not identify themselves, saying they signed an agreement to not criticize the organization or its leadership or face being kicked out of the band.
Boren rescinded that agreement. He met with band members Monday.
Boren said in the news release that Stolarik worked hard, but he accepts the decision "in order to unify the" band.