Drum majors foster leadership and community for 140 students

At Pittsburg State University, students have countless opportunities to lead - building valuable skills, gaining real-world experience, and creating meaningful connections with fellow students, faculty, and the community.

One of the most outwardly visible leadership positions: the drum majors of the Pride of the Plains Marching Band.

This organization is comprised of about 140 students from dozens of majors, including many that are non-music. They spend about four months together each fall, starting with a full week of band camp before classes start, with three afternoons each week through the conclusion of football season.

On Game Day, the band leads the football team down Gorilla Walk to Carnie Smith Stadium, fires up fans at a pep rally in Gorilla Village, plays in the stands until the last player has left the field, and leads the annual Homecoming and Christmas parades down Broadway.

The organization also provides its members with a family away from home, noted Director Jobey Wilson - a sort of "lifeboat," especially for freshmen who are experiencing their first major life transition.

Drum majors offer support to each member both socially and academically, lead music rehearsals, act as a liaison between the band and Wilson, and create a positive, productive, environment that's also fun.

This year's drum majors

This year's drum majors, chosen by audition, are Jocelyn Goodwin ('26), Samantha Mack ('26), and Cassidy McMurry ('28).

All three say it's a leadership dream come true.

"I have wanted to be a drum major since I was four years old, so getting to experience it in college is one of the best things I have gotten the chance to do!" said Mack, a music education major. "I want to help ensure that the marching band is a safe space for people to go, and for each member to always know they have a family within the program."

Her favorite moment:

"Gorilla Walk! There is no other feeling I can compare this experience to. There is just something about the atmosphere as we prepare to play 'War' before the football team heads to the stadium."

Cassidy McMurry, a music education and music performance major, said she became a drum major to help students have a great marching band experience.

"My favorite part of marching band is getting to play some really fun music that gets people excited," she said. "I really want to show people how fun marching band can be. It's hot outside, it's a lot of work, but we have a really good time!"

Goodwin, a clarinet major, said building a culture is incredibly important to her.

"I'm excited to share my ideas of striving for excellence while leading with compassion and understanding," she said.

Her number one goal is to ensure members and spectators are having a good time.

Her favorite part of marching band?

"The energy we create through marching, playing, and cheering. Game days are just so electric!" she said.

Other leaders

Other leadership opportunities with the Pride of the Plains include:

• Managers:
• Equipment managers (Louie Hurtado, Devin Williams)
  Uniform manager (Alex Ramirez-Perez)
• Section leaders:
• Piccolo/flute (Alex Ramirez-Perez)
• Clarinet (Hollyn Smith, Gracie Pennel)
• Alto Sax (Kellie Dowling)
• Trumpet (Dallas Hall, Rocky Reed)
• Mellophone (Marlee Mikel)
• Tenor Tones (Ben Musgraves, Max Battaglia)
• Sousaphone (Riley Cross, Ryn Sprague)
• Drum Captain (Jack Stefanoni)
• Color Guard Captain (Alora Carr, Kenzie Snodgrass)
• Academic Manager (Rylee Liermann)
• Social Committee (Audrey Cranford, Maggie Vollen)
• Band Librarian (Alex Ramirez-Perez)

• When to see them

Catch the PSU Pride of the Plains Marching Band in action in Gorilla Village on Game Day 1.25 hours before kickoff, followed by pre-game, halftime, and in the stands.

Tickets are on sale now at the PSU Ticket Office and online. They are free to current students and university employees with a valid ID.

The halftime performances will alternate being played to the east side and west side of the stadium:

Sept. 13: Facing west
Sept. 20: Facing east
Oct. 4: West
Oct. 11: East
Nov. 1: West

The band also will perform at the game in KC on Nov. 15.

Tickets:

Buy now