WDIV, Local 4, (TV and social media) made a report that aired Monday, July 13, concerning disturbing allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors in a school district outside Washtenaw County. The report created the impression that the individual named had contact with children through the Our Own Thing Instructional Program. That information is completely false. The Instructional Program is operationally separate and distinct from the Our Own Thing Chorale. Mr. Willis was never associated in any way with the Instructional Program.
Mr. Willis was under contract as assistant director and accompanist with the Willis Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale for the 2025/2026 season. The Our Own Thing Chorale is for adult membership only. Mr. Willis’ contract term ended June 30, 2026, and he is no longer associated with the Chorale. The reporting also inadvertently associates Dr. LaVonté Heard with Mr. Willis. For clarity, Dr. Heard had no involvement in Mr. Willis’ hiring or supervision.
The Willis Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale (OOTC) is a 501(c)(3) qualified charitable organization. Your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. The Instructional program is a Branch of OOTC.
The Willis Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale (also known as The Willis C Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale and The Willis C Patterson Our Own Thing Instructional Program) is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, formerly incarcerated, or veteran status.