DEKALB, Illinois – When the Columbians marched into the Drum Corps International Midwest Championship, they brought something powerful with them: pure, untapped potential and an unshakeable drive. After wrapping up their West Coast tour earlier this month, the Pasco, Washington corps is officially out on the open road with a young, dynamic roster that is hungry to learn, grow and make its mark on every show day.
Drum major Kate Ross, with eyes on the ensemble day in and day out, has attested to the corps’ and its membership’s progression through sheer experience over the past few months. Drawing inspiration from their 2026 production, “Unstoppable,” the Columbians are pushing their limits on tour and working toward a strong upward trajectory in DCI’s Open Class.
“We have two 14-year-olds who just now are going into high school. We have, I think, three to four ageouts, so we’re on the younger side this year,” Ross said. “But honestly, they are maturing a lot more than we expected. They’re handling this season very well, and I’m really happy to see just where they end up at the end.”
Now more than a decade as part of DCI’s Open Class, and anchored by about 20 returning brass veterans in 2026, the Columbians have placed a heavy emphasis on student leadership to guide the fresh momentum. Building a strong culture of unity is an intentional process, and it’s one that is laying a foundation for years to come.
“It’s been [a shift] having [so few] vets compared to our rookies, but we’ve been handling it very well,” Ross said. “I check in with my leadership members, listen to see if they need help, and see what’s going on. If there are any disagreements, I try to help them figure it out rather than just doing it for them, so they can also learn how to lead.”
It’s a role Ross has embraced whole-heartedly as the face of the ensemble. While the responsibilities of leading a young corps are significant, she approaches every day with enthusiasm.
“I love being a drum major. I love leading by example, helping them grow, sharing the knowledge of leadership, and helping solve problems,” Ross said. “There are just a few little reminders I have to give here and there, but other than that, they’ve been handling this very well. I’m really happy to be their drum major.”
That sentiment echoes throughout the student leadership team. Fifth-year color guard member MJ Olsen is experiencing a different season with a flipped veteran-to-rookie ratio than what she’s seen in past years, but sees the young roster as an opportunity for rapid growth and mentorship.
“It’s not difficult, it’s just different — [even if] it’s a little bit of an adjustment having people so young in the corps, especially in the color guard,” Olsen said. “A lot of them have improved so much since the beginning of the season. A lot of them came from smaller schools in Washington, and seeing them grow into the performers they are today is really cool. It’s amazing to be able to say I helped them get to where they are now.”
The emphasis on peer mentorship is just as visible in the brass section. Horn sergeant Oscar Santillan stepped into this season knowing a young horn line would be looking to veterans to set the pace. Operating with the clear understanding that his section looks up to him, Santillan embraces that responsibility every time he steps onto the field.
“I want to provide the best version of myself, the most energetic,” Santillan said. “That way, they also get the vibe, and we can go perform a really great show together.”
Much like Ross on the podium, Santillan is focused on securing the future of the ensemble and making sure his impact lasts long after the season ends.
“Positive energy and a good attitude rub off on other people,” Santillan said. “We really set the culture and the tradition, and I feel like with our leadership team this year, the Columbians can really raise the roof.”
Now that the corps has officially made it this far from home and is knocking on the door of 70 points after the DCI Midwestern Championship, the group is collectively focused on making the most out of the upcoming DCI World Championships in August. Not only is the opportunity to perform at Lucas Oil Stadium exciting in itself, but it also stands as a reminder for how far the Columbians have come.
“I can’t wait to see where we end up with how well our season ends, our score, and how well we have grown from the beginning of our tour,” Ross said. “I can’t wait to see that growth.”
The Columbians’ journey toward World Championships Week in Dayton and Indianapolis will first make a stop at DCI Huntington on Wednesday, July 29.
