PINE BLUFF, ARK. - Our HBCU of the Month of February 2014 is feels regal according to some of the members of the university's internationally known Vesper Choir.

Thanks to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff newly elected Chancellor, Laurence B. Alexander, the Vesper Choir will be royalty robed for performance in the upcoming academic year. This past year, they worked with limited numbers of robes and performed with the ladies wearing different styles during performances while the men wore black suits.

The robe project was initiated by National Alumni Board member Mrs. Eunice Williamson and taken on as a project by the Class of 1965, but however, the project could not be completed. In recognizing the importance of the Choir's visual representation as ambassadors of the university, Chancellor Alexander desired that the appearance of the Vesper Choir match the excellence in singing the ensemble is noted for.

UAPB's Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander is pictured with the Vesper Choir and interim Music Department Chair Dr. Michael Bates along with members of the Vesper Choir.

"I want them to look as good as they sound," said Chancellor Alexander.

Chancellor Alexander approved the new design and colors and funded the purchase of 85 new robes. Dr. Michael J. Bates, Vesper Choir director and interim chair of the Music Department, expressed his gratitude to Dr. Alexander for recognizing the importance of the Choir's artistic, educational and cultural mission and its importance not only as ambassadors of the university, but as conveyors of the history and traditions of the University.

"The students are excited and are looking forward to the opportunity to perform in the new robes," said Dr. Bates.

Organized in 1945 by Ariel M. Lovelace, the Vesper Choir is a service organization hat has performed for significant campus and community events, schools, churches, and community organizations around the state of Arkansas and internationally. With a mission that is cultural, artistic and educational, the group has produced a long line of distinguished singers, performers and professionals in other work fields and academics including Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, prominent theologian, pastor and author; Smokie Norful, Grammy award-winning contemporary gospel artist and paster; and the late James McKissic, internationally renowned concert pianist.

The D.J's Music Site named the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff as our HBCU of the Month back in February. You can visit UAPB's honoree page as our HBCU of the month here.