“ It’ s amazing how a simple instrument can help foster a growing music culture on campus,” Denhard said. Indeed, the ukulele became another way for students to find their musical“ home.”
The Marching Band is Born
Major institutional changes laid the groundwork for even more musical growth. When Mustang Stadium opened in 2010, and football was added to the athletics program, then-President Kevin Manning saw an opportunity to energize school spirit: Stevenson needed a Marching Band. In 2011, Mark Lortz was hired to bring that vision to life.“ Mark was brought on to direct the Marching Band’ s performances at football games,” Bob Suggs said.“ The enthusiasm proved infectious.”
The band started with 70 students. By 2025, that number had grown to 107— about 3-4 % of
Stevenson’ s student population, the highest participation rate among Maryland colleges and universities. The Marching Band quickly became a beloved part of campus life.
Today, the band performs at every home football game, and their annual Homecoming halftime show is a cherished Stevenson tradition. They also take their music on the road— visiting area high schools and performing at special events throughout the region.
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