Open a New Chapter
A message from Executive Director, Josh Thye
Dear friend of The Academy,
I write to you humbled, excited, and honored to be in the role of Executive Director replacing our visionary founder, and friend, Mark Richardson. As a proud alum of the original horn line (2001), I am drawn back to this organization because of its enduring values and mission… “a creative endeavor that fosters confidence, joy, self-discipline, and a love of excellence and high achievement.”
This is an organization and an activity that I believe in. I believe this is worth the ‘investment.’
Thank you so much for your support. Because of the generosity of people just like you, The Academy has been able to impact thousands of young performers over the past 26 years. I am one that was personally impacted… I was made better and changed forever.
I’m asking you to consider supporting us this year to help us reach another milestone. Your continued loyalty and support mean the world to us.
Would you consider… This season we ask you to join our ‘Heat Forged Society.’ The Heat Forged Society is an exclusive group of supporters who commit to giving $2,500 or more to support the Academy Drum and Bugle Corps.
Like iron refined through fire, our Society members represent resilience, dedication, and a shared commitment to shaping future generations of performers. Membership honors those devoted to the Academy’s mission, supporting a legacy that has thrived for 26 years and will endure for decades to come.
Will you consider joining our Heat Forged Society by making a gift to $2,500 or more?
Together, we’ll celebrate the Academy’s incredible journey and ensure its bright future.
Any gift you can provide will have an immediate and lasting impact on the Academy. From covering essential costs like housing, transportation, insurance, and meals for our members (our daily costs over the summer are around $8,500 per day), to ensuring we can take the field each season, your generosity helps make it all possible. But it doesn’t stop there—your support also helps secure the Academy’s long-term stability, allowing us to continue providing life-changing experiences for young performers for years to come. A legacy investment.
Thank you for your generosity and support — we wouldn’t be able to do this without you.
Respectfully,
Josh Thye
Executive Director
