Chippewa Valley Times

The Blugold Marching Band (BMB) at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire recently honored Dr. Randal Dickerson, its director, by naming him an honorary alumnus. The award was presented during the band's annual indoor concert at Pablo Center at the Confluence. This recognition is reserved for individuals who have shown significant dedication and service to UW-Eau Claire or the broader community.

Dr. Dickerson, set to retire in December, has been instrumental in transforming the BMB over his 25-year leadership. He expanded the band from a modest 60-member group to a vibrant ensemble of over 470 members performing on various stages locally and internationally.

“In the fall of 2000, I first stood in front of 60 students, having no idea of what was to come,” Dickerson reflected last month. “Once the band started to grow, campus got behind us wholeheartedly.”

Chancellor James Schmidt praised Dr. Dickerson for his "outstanding, dedicated, transformative service" to both students and the wider community. Schmidt highlighted that BMB alumni carry their experiences with pride into their careers.

“BMB alumni proudly carry on with their careers knowing that, for a few brief shining moments, they had the privilege of being in one of the most remarkable musical ensembles in the United States of America — if not the world,” Schmidt said.

Throughout challenges such as the pandemic, BMB sustained its membership numbers above 400 and continues to draw students from all majors who are eager to experience music's joy and camaraderie.

Under Dr. Dickerson's guidance, nearly 4,000 students have participated in eight international tours across five continents since he took charge. The band plans to visit four additional countries during a tour scheduled for January 2025.

Guy Dee, who has served as BMB's announcing voice for over two decades, commended Dr. Dickerson's impact on fostering an inclusive and enriching environment within the band.

“We thank Randy for creating this little corner of the universe for so many remarkable people to come together and make beautiful things,” Dee remarked.

“The Blugold Marching Band goes so far beyond playing music or doing marching drills — it's a place where thousands of people have gathered to collaborate for no other reason than the enrichment of their own lives and the lives of others.”

Beyond his contributions to BMB, Dr. Dickerson is also a professor who teaches instrumental music education and marching band procedures while supervising student teachers in music education programs.