Members of the 2004 class of the DCI Hall of Fame were announced back in April, were recognized during World Championships and will be formally inducted at a ceremony this coming January. We'll be profiling each new Hall of Fame inductee over the next few days.

Stephanie Lynde
Stephanie Ann Lynde marched with the Blue Devils from 1971 to 1977. She went on to serve as the Blue Devils' principal dance choreographer in the 1980s. Her talents helped usher in a new style of guard movement with roots firmly planted in modern dance.^ "I helped bring quality dance and movement into the mainstream, having the opportunity to combine the pursuit of a degree in dance and performance and continuing to be involved in drum corps. This more modern approach gave the color guard greater visual appeal, versatility and diversity. I think it gave them a voice," said Lynde. When referring to this contribution as a drum corps "legacy," however, Lynde is very humble. "'Legacy' is a very lofty concept. I was in the right place at the right time. In 1981 I was given the opportunity to work with my mentors, especially Shirley Stratton, the color guard wizard extraordinaire. My 'legacy,' if you will, is not mine alone. I can't claim it for myself," said Lynde. "With Jerry Seawright as the director during my years with the Blue Devils, we all had the fortune of being in the right place at the right time. I loved the energy and I rode the wave. My 'legacy' will be my creative contribution to a work of art in progress." James Elvord, a DCI Hall of Famer, said, "Stephanie was and still is a leader among our family. She gave us her style, creativity and sensitivity that are part of the basis for the drum and bugle activity today. She is a giant among our peers, and should take her place alongside us." In addition to her drum corps career, Lynde worked in massage therapy for patients seeking neuromuscular pain relief. She now spends her days as the full-time mother of her son, Mason. "I am happy to have been a part of the drum corps activity in the '80s and to be involved with the artistic contributions of all the talented performers and instructors," said Lynde. "I feel like the luckiest girl in the world to have had that opportunity." Visit Stephanie Lynde's page in the DCI Hall of Fame