Article summary
- A fourth-year math major and math tutor, Brennen Lishman is also the drumline block captain for the Pride of Minnesota marching band’s 2026-27 season.
- Scholarship support was key to cementing his decision to attend the University of Minnesota and has given him the freedom to fully commit to his studies, the band and community service.
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For Brennen Lishman, being part of the University of Minnesota’s marching band, the Pride of Minnesota, has been the defining experience of his college career.
A fourth-year student in the College of Science and Engineering, Lishman plays tenor drum and has been named block captain for the 2026-27 season. He’s also the recipient of the Norman Family Scholarship, Herb and Annette Nichols Undergraduate Scholarship in Mathematics and Langworthy Drumline and Twirler Marching Band Scholarship.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?
“The marching band, and especially the drumline, was definitely the primary reason. I was also really impressed by how expansive and beautiful the campus is, and I received a lot of scholarships that solidified my decision to attend.”
Why did you want to join the marching band?
“I had grown up doing ensembles, playing in marching bands and choirs from a really young age. Then, when I was in high school, I saw the Pride of Minnesota perform at the Outback Bowl. It seemed like such an amazing group that I wanted to join. Now it’s impossible for me to imagine my college career without being a part of the band.”
What has being in the marching band meant to you?
“It has helped me feel a strong sense of pride for our school — like I’m a part of something bigger than myself. We’re often the first thing new University students see at convocation and perform at graduations. And we’re such a positive presence when we do outreach events in the community or across the state.”
Outside of the band, what do you do?
“I’m a math major with a minor in statistics. I love learning purely for the sake of learning, and I feel like I really get to do that in my studies. I also tutor kids in math.”
How have scholarships made a difference in your college experience?
“They have had a huge impact. I have been able to focus on my studies, marching band, volunteering and my friends without having to balance a job during the semester as well. They have also provided relief that I can keep focusing on my studies as I near graduation because I don’t need to worry about paying off loans immediately.”
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