Kurtis Cleckner

Graduation year

Summer 2013

Hometown

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Major

Supply Chain and Information Systems

Why I chose to join Penn State’s Blue Band

During my senior year of high school, a proud Penn State alumna served as our music department’s student teaching assistant. She often spoke about her involvement with the Blue Band, and when I asked her questions about her experiences, her typical response would be, “You just have to do it! You just have to!” These conversations, along with YouTube videos of the legendary Drum Major flip, inspired me to get involved and ultimately led me to the Blue Band building for freshman-year tryouts.

My experience

Being completely new to the University Park campus with a massive student body, I was really thankful to have this unique opportunity to create friendships with students from similar musical backgrounds through the Blue Band. During my auditions, I really felt a strong connection among the members of our rookie class and knew right away that we would build lifelong friendships. Needless to say, I was absolutely relieved when I heard my name called for making the band!

What I learned

The discipline and skills I learned in the Blue Band are completely transferrable to any job or life situation. This organization’s success is dependent upon student leadership and constant cooperation among all its members. The complexities behind preparation for a one-week show are enormous, and being part of this effort to deliver great shows to our audience week after week has shown me the rewards of consistent hard work.

Words I live by

John Maxwell said, “If we’re growing, we’re always going to be out of our comfort zone.” Considering the globally connected and diverse world we live in, I truly believe that we need to constantly challenge our beliefs, keep an open mind, and embrace every opportunity to learn as much as we can from whomever we can. Penn State has definitely provided an environment in which I could test new ideas and experiences, and I am eager to apply this approach to my next stage of life.

Greatest memory

Marching in the 2009 Rose Bowl Parade was by far one of the most exhilarating experiences a college musician can have. With nearly a half million spectators in attendance, I had the honor of representing Penn State while showcasing our legendary fight songs and parade block maneuvers to a new crowd. I specifically remember rival fans complimenting our friendliness and generosity. The Blue Band showed what it meant to be a true Penn Stater, and being a part of that was something quite special.

I also felt honored to be the Blue Band representative and play the trumpet at Coach Joe Paterno’s memorial service. It was an emotional time for the Penn State community, and I am grateful to have been able to use my talents to stir our Penn State pride.

Future plans

I’ll be spending a fifth year on my degree because in spring 2013 I want to pursue a second co-op opportunity in a different industry and region than the one I previously completed. I think another perspective will benefit me greatly when I embark on my job search. After graduation, I am interested in working for a consulting firm that offers supply-chain-related services.

Why I believe it’s important to give back to the Blue Band

Gifts made each year to the Blue Band have a direct impact on the success of our organization. Over time, instruments age, uniforms wear, and equipment become dated. Fortunately, however, we have your support to help keep the Blue Band looking and sounding great year after year! In gratitude, current Blue Band members take great care of our equipment and facilities, which are funded by our donors.

I would like to thank our donors so much for their continuous giving. Your support helps create extraordinary opportunities for young, ambitious musicians.

How can you contribute?

Make a gift today.