TROY, Ala. – Robert E. Foster, former director of bands at the University of Kansas, was inducted today into the National Band Association’s Hall of Fame of Distinguished Band Conductors at Troy University.

Foster, who currently serves as professor of music and assistant chair of the Department of Music and Dance at the University of Kansas, joins 46 other noted conductors to have been inducted since the Hall of Fame’s inception in 1980. Dr. John M. Long, former director of bands at Troy University and chairman of the National Band Association Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors, presented Foster with a certificate and unveiled a portrait that will hang in the Hall, located in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on the Troy University campus.

Hailed as one who has “earned his spot at the pinnacle of the profession,” Foster was nominated for induction by one of his former students, Dr. William Gora, director of bands and professor of saxophone at Appalachian State University.

“I think Bob invented the concept of multi-tasking,” Gora said. “I have never met anyone who could do as many different things at one time and do them as successfully as Bob. He has achieved success in the three areas that are most worthy of measure – family, service to others and friends. He and Becky have raised three wonderful and successful children. Literally thousands of his former students have made their way back to Bob to indicate the tremendous impact he has had on their lives. Bob is blessed with many, many friends who love and admire him.”

Foster said he was “deeply honored” by his induction.

“It is very humbling. It reflects the wonderful good fortune I have enjoyed in my life to have good teachers, good role models and a wonderfully supportive family,” Foster said. “I have been blessed beyond measure. I am extremely grateful to Bill Gora for this nomination and to the Hall of Fame Committee and Troy University for this tremendous honor.”

Foster was joined at the ceremony by his wife Becky and their sons Randy and Rob. Troy University Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr., Director of Bands Ralph Ford and Associate Director of Bands James W. Smith also took part in the ceremony.