Derek Stoughton previously served as Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at Southeastern Louisiana University. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Spirit of the Southland Marching Band, including writing drill and creating unique arrangements for the ensemble. Mr. Stoughton was also the director of the Basketball Pep Band, the Southeastern Jazz Band, and the Symphonic Band, as well as taught courses in Music Education in the department of Music and Performing Arts.

Prior to his appointment at Southeastern, Mr. Stoughton taught in the public schools of both McKinney, TX and Pflugerville, TX. During that time, the ensembles that he taught earned consistent superior ratings at all major contests and festivals that were attended. He also oversaw all aspects of the percussion departments, grades 6-12, as well as taught courses in Jazz Band and Music Theory.

Mr. Stoughton holds a Master of Music degree in Wind Conducting from Oklahoma State University, and a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from The University of Texas at Austin. He holds professional memberships in the Texas Music Educators Association, the Texas Bandmasters Association, Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Kappa Kappa Psi. He also is an honorary member of Tau Beta Sigma.

Mr. Stoughton is also endorsed by Innovative Percussion, and performs exclusively using their sticks and mallets.