2025 DCI Volunteers of the Year

Volunteers serve as the backbone of every drum corps, providing much-needed assistance and support to ensure that performing students can take part in the life-changing drum corps experience.

Drum Corps International’s Volunteer of the Year awards highlight some of the most devoted and hardworking individuals in all of Marching Music’s Major League — those whom, without their dedication, the spectacle just wouldn’t shine the same.

Following a selection process administered by Drum Corps International’s Friends of DCI program, the following 2025 recipients will be recognized this August during the DCI World Championship Semifinals in Indianapolis.

Mike Andrews
Blue Stars

An alum from some of the corps’ earliest years, Mike Andrews came to the Blue Stars organization ahead of the 2016 DCI Tour, and helped revolutionize the corps’ travel efforts as its transportation director.

“The Blue Stars would not be the same without him,” Blue Stars CEO Brad Furlano said. “And we are honored to nominate him for this well-deserved recognition.”

Responsible for the organization of Blue Stars’ “fleet” of tour vehicles, Andrews has spent the better part of a decade overseeing legal compliance, insurance, maintenance and more.

Andrews, who has a wealth of construction management experience, used his professional expertise to help lead Blue Stars into a new era of transportation. One of his more notable accomplishments, Andrews spearheaded the design and construction of the corps’ state-of-the-art food trailer, which was completed in the early 2020s.

“Mike’s selfless dedication, problem-solving skills, and commitment to providing a world-class experience for our members make him an  exceptional candidate for DCI’s Volunteer of the Year award,” Furlano said. “His ability to turn vision into reality, overcome logistical challenges, and lead with precision and care has left an indelible mark on our organization.”

Dr. Brenda Brak, MD
The Cavaliers

Dr. Brenda Brak, a co-founder of the Marching Arts Safety & Health (MASH) initiative, has brought medical expertise and passionate service to The Cavaliers and the drum corps activity for more than 30 years.

“Her unwavering commitment and tireless dedication have positively impacted generations of performers,” said Alan Micco, a member of The Cavaliers’ board of directors. “I am confident that her legacy of service will  continue to inspire others for years to come.”

Brak played a key role in transforming the Rosemont, Illinois-based corps’ healthcare standards, and was at the forefront of major steps taken to develop its medical team into a model of excellence.

Beyond her own corps, though, Brak was an influential voice not only in Drum Corps International’s COVID-19 response, but also in activity-wide efforts to improve fitness and injury prevention.

“Dr. Brak embodies the spirit of volunteerism,” Micco said. “Whether traveling with the corps to regional and national events, mentoring young medical professionals, or ensuring that every performer receives the care they need, her contributions have left an indelible mark on DCI.”

Kent White
The Academy

While his efforts have been most predominantly focused on financial management, Kent White’s fingerprints are all over The Academy organization.

White, most notably, played an integral role in helping see the Arizona corps through the financial challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis, Kent’s guidance ensured The Academy’s survival, not just financially but as a strong, unified organization.

As a volunteer, White didn’t limit his efforts to his main area of expertise; he has served the Arizona corps in a multitude of capacities, offering his helping hand in the kitchen, in the driver’s seat of tour vehicles, and in personal mentoring.

“His leadership and financial expertise have been pivotal in securing The Academy’s long-term stability, but his contributions go far beyond numbers,” former Academy executive director Mark Richardson  said. “More than his credentials, Kent’s heart is what makes him worthy of this honor.”