Due to Croft’s late resignation, USF was unable to complete a search for a new Director of Bands. Donald “Don” Kneeburg, who had served as the Associate Director of Bands since 1974 accepted a 1-year interim position for the 80-81 school year. Kneeburg conducted Wind Ensemble 1, Wind Ensemble 2, the Brass Choir, and continued his duties as Professor of Trombone. At the end of the year, Kneeburg would resign from his position in the Bands Department and focus solely on his role as Trombone Professor. 

After a failed search for a DOB, USF hired Irene Chatham as an Assistant Visiting Professor and Conductor of Wind Ensembles in 1981. Chatham came to USF from the University of Miami where was pursuing her doctoral degree. She was previously a student at USF in the early to mid 70’s, where she completed her master’s degree before becoming the Band Director of Southwest Miami High School. Chatham was described as a fantastic musician, conductor, and band educator. After another failed search, Chatham left the position at the end of spring semester in 1982.

Irene Chatham went on to serve as a music teacher at Walker Middle School and led the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) music programs in Ft. Knox, KY. She passed away on January 14th, 2001.