A Dive Into African-American Music With Bill Myers EP #4-2024

Todays Song- I Drop By Lessette

William E. (Bill) Myers, a native of Greenville, NC, received his education from the city's public schools. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education from Virginia State University, as well as both a Master's Degree in Music and a Master's Degree in Education from East Carolina University. Myers completed North Carolina's inaugural Principal's Executive Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and was among the program's first graduates. Additionally, he served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Commencing his teaching career at Frederick Douglas High School in Elm City, Myers instructed instrumental and choral music, consumer music, and elementary music. His tenure at Elm City High School included roles as assistant principal and instructor for various music classes. Throughout his teaching career, Myers garnered accolades such as the State Terry Sanford Award for creativity in teaching and earned opportunities to conduct UNC's Band Day and ECU's All-State Band. He also received recognition in several Who's Who publications.

In 1976, Myers assumed the position of principal at Elm City High School, a role he maintained through the school's transition to a middle school due to a merger. Subsequently, in 1988, he was appointed Assistant Superintendent for Personnel for the Wilson County School System, becoming the first African-American to hold this position. His dedication and leadership earned him the title of Wilson County's inaugural Principal of the Year, and he was also a finalist for the state title.
Myers' contributions extend beyond education, as evidenced by his numerous awards and recognitions. Notable honors include the BB&T Outstanding Contribution to Community Arts Award, multiple Omega Man of the Year awards, and recognition as the Educational Office Personnel Administrator of the Year. His commitment to community service led to various accolades, including the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Foundation and the North Carolina Brown-Hudson Award from the North Carolina Folklore Society.

Moreover, Myers co-founded "The Monitors," a musical group with a legacy spanning over sixty years. The group has served as the backing band for renowned artists such as Otis Redding, Millie Jackson, and Ray Charles. Myers' involvement with music extends to his roles as an organist at Wilson Chapel Church for thirty years and as Minister of Music at St. John A.M.E. Zion Church for twenty-five years.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Myers cherishes his family life with his wife, Diana Davis, and their two children, Michael and Michelle. They are proud grandparents to four grandchildren: William, Madison, Cameron, and Mikayla. In recognition of his significant contributions to the state, Myers was awarded the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor Roy Cooper in 2022.