Drumming up support

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Chase Maszle
Communications and Marketing Manager
M: 412-722-2455
maszlecc@jmu.edu

James Madison University's Marching Royal Dukes drumming up support for Special Olympics and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital this season

HARRISONBURG, VA (September 10, 2016) --- Today at James Madison University's 'Day with the Dukes,' a football game where Virginia Special Olympians are invited to be a part of the game day experience, the school's marching band announced that their primary goal for the season will be revolve around one major theme: giving back.

At half time, the Marching Royal Dukes (MRD) halted their latest show to present $1400 to the Special Olympics of Virginia, Area 4. Over the past few weeks, the sections within the band have held a friendly "penny-wars" competition, and all of the proceeds will play a part in funding year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This represents the second consecutive year the band has supported the Special Olympics.

In addition, during a special postgame presentation, the band's Director, Scott Rikkers, proudly announced a new philanthropic relationship with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The band is one of four in the country who are leading the charge against childhood cancer, and pioneering a new initiative — marching and dedicating a half-time performance for the kids of St. Jude. The band's musicians and strong alumni network will be encouraged to support St. Jude through the hospital's online donation system, with a season-end goal of $25,000 in November.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers. Its mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.

"We are proud to continue our support of the Special Olympics for the second year, " said Rikkers. "And we're increasing our charitable efforts by adding St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. We are partnering with Virginia Tech to potentially expand the program to other marching bands in the future."

Members within the band are proud to be affiliated with these efforts.

"It's great to be helping those who are challenged, and working on behalf of a charitable cause makes the MRD experience all the more meaningful," said Grace Dingus, a drum major and fourth year student studying music education.

The Marching Royal Dukes is James Madison University's marching band made up of over 450 musicians and performers. Being one of the largest collegiate marching bands in the United States, the Marching Royal Dukes have been thrilling audiences with their exciting music and fast-paced movement since 1972. In addition to performances at Bridgeforth Stadium for every JMU Football home game, the Marching Royal Dukes have a tradition of partaking in prestigious performing such as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, in events abroad, as well as in the community. The band supports excellence, musicianship, personal growth, and community giving. More about the band >>

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Images and B-Roll package.

You can find out how to support the Marching for St. Jude fundraiser on the Marching Royal Dukes website.