Can You Still Hear It?

Ronald Campbell ‘98

Do you remember? Do you remember how it felt the first time? I do. 

In my mind, I can see myself in front of Wilson Library. The warm-up chorale begins. Then, cadence erupts. Finally, we march down Stadium Drive through a crowd of fans and the Rams Head lot. Pregame starts and 50,000 fans scream in unison. 

Can you see yourself back in those stands? Do you remember all of the work it took to get to that point? The heat of August, Rainbow Fields and going back to rooms without air conditioning… always thankful for the opportunity. I can never forget. 

Soon, a new generation of Marching Tar Heels will gather in Hill Hall. There will be nervous freshmen, know-it all sophomores, juniors and, well, seniors. As alumni, we  know how good they have it. They can’t possibly know, but maybe, just maybe they do. 

What would I give to have another chance to be young and carefree with fall in Chapel Hill just around the corner? Since I can’t go back to those heady days of the 90s, I can do the next best thing. I can help to make sure this current iteration of the Marching Tar Heels have the experience they deserve. 

I was excited to have the chance to participate in an alumni association for UNC Bands. As alumni, we are in a unique position to assist the program. Maybe we can provide financial assistance to purchase new equipment or fund trips for the band. Maybe we can mentor a band member in a field they are interested in. Maybe we can provide a home cooked meal for a member who is far from home. 

I don’t have all of the answers. What I do have is a love for Chapel Hill, a love for Carolina and a desire to give back to a program that provided me with experiences and friends that have lasted far beyond my days as a student. Whether you are close to Chapel Hill or far away, Carolina is always there with you. 

Now, we have a chance to reconnect. This is the group you’ve been waiting for. Don’t wait. Do you remember? Close your eyes and trust me, you’ll be back before you know it.

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