The University of North Alabama is considering whether they should do away with their marching band's nickname "Pride of Dixie."

A 19-member panel has been organized to discuss the issues surrounding the term "Dixie," the University stated in a release. The panel will be made up of current students, faculty and alumni.

"UNA has a reputation as a progressive institution, with a long history of successfully using collaborative leadership to address difficult social and cultural issues," said Dr. Ross Alexander, UNA vice president for Academic Affairs and Provost in a release. "The University is proud of its musical heritage and the musical heritage of the Shoals--both of which are built around values of inclusion and respect."

Marching band director Lloyd Jones broke with tradition when he introduced the band as "the University of North Alabama marching band" during the halftime show of the UNA, Alabama A&M football game, straying from the usual introduction "out of respect for A&M's mission and campus history."

The UNA Lions football team moved up to Division I FCS football for the 2018 season, and are currently independent. The UNA Lions next play North Dakota State Bison in Fargo on Saturday, September 15.