Fred Feeney

Organizational Consultant

Fred has an extensive background in drum corps, color guard and marching band including being a member of the Blue Stars in the late 1970’s.  He has been a judge for over 40 years, was Chief Judge of the Color Guard Division of WGI from 1993 to 2006, was on the WGI Task Force for 13 years, and was a WGI judge starting in 1983. 

Currently he serves as an at-large member on the WGI Board of Directors and is a member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.  He is also Chief Judge of the GulfCoast Judges Association, an organization serving the color guard activity in 5 circuits across the Southeastern United States.  Fred has also judged for DCI, Drum Corps South and has been a judge for marching band contests in many parts of the country. 

He has served on the staff of the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps since 2006 in a variety of positions including program coordinator, staff coordinator, program consultant and as a member of the design team.  He has also served as a visual designer, program coordinator and consultant to competitive marching bands in the Southeastern United States including finalists in the Mississippi marching band championships.

Professionally, in his life outside of the marching arts, he is an attorney and the managing partner of the Gulfport, Mississippi law firm of Franke & Salloum, where he is engaged in a civil litigation practice representing clients in the defense of major litigation including medical malpractice, industrial accidents, construction and coverage litigation. 

He is a member of a number of different professional organizations including the Mississippi Bar, the American Board of Trial Advocates, the Defense Research Institute, the American Inns of Court and the Fifth Circuit Bar Association.

Kyle Gillikin

Tour Manager

Kyle resides in Virginia Beach, VA, where he works as a Realtor. He also assists with producing, scheduling and managing the entertainment for Busch Gardens, Williamsburg.

Kyle holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Theatre from Radford University. Before Kyle was a Realtor, he spent the past 10 years as a professional Stage Manager. Working for Radford University, Roanoke Children’s Theatre, Heritage Theatre Festival, Weston Theatre Company and Busch Gardens, Williamsburg. While at Busch Gardens Kyle managed a multitude of events and shows, before moving into the Supervisor of Show Production position and overseeing all show products for the park. Kyle is excited to be joining the Blue Stars this season.  

Aaron Meyer

Production Manager

Aaron resides in Virginia Beach, VA, where he works as a family and consumer sciences teacher at Princess Anne High School. He is also an active marching arts instructor, designer, consultant, and adjudicator across the United States.

Aaron holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration and Political Science from James Madison University and is finishing his Master's Degree in Integrative STEM Education from Virginia Tech. As a performer, Aaron began his drum corps career as a member of The Capital Regiment in 2009 and The Boston Crusaders in 2010. He then became a member of The Bluecoats from 2012 until his age-out in 2015.  In addition to being with the Blue Stars visual staff since 2016, Aaron also served as the interim visual caption manager for the 2019 Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps.  Aaron is beyond excited to return for his 9th year at the Blue Stars.

Mike Roberts

Assistant Tour Manager

Mike Roberts is originally from Orland Park, Illinois. In 2018, Mike graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Instrumental Music Education. While at ISU, Mike performed in the Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, and was a drum major for the Big Red Marching Machine. He most recently graduated with his Master’s Degree in Music Education from the VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois.

Mike is currently a travel consultant with Guardian Travel Group. His responsibilities include building and managing trips for student groups, tour directing trips in different countries, and working with vendors to provide a successful trip for any group that wants to travel! He has traveled to Italy, Ireland, Mexico, and many states in the U.S. Before he was a travel consultant, Mike was a band director and taught in Illinois for five years. He is very grateful for his time as a music educator. 

Within the marching arts activity, Mike is a part of the marching band staff at Oswego East High School. Mike marched with the Blue Stars for their 2016 and 2017 seasons. After marching, Mike went on to become a trumpet staff member and taught from 2019-2023. He is excited for his new role within the Blue Stars organization and is thrilled to give back to something that gave so much to him! 

Becky Winger

Senior Administrative Specialist

Becky Winger has been involved with the Blue Stars since 2018, starting as a member of the hornline during the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Becky joined the administrative team in 2022, and has served in a senior admin role since 2024.

Becky is the assistant band director at Jefferson High School in Lafayette, Indiana. At Jeff, they serve as the co-director for 3 curricular concert bands, 2 curricular jazz ensembles, and an extra-curricular basketball band. She also serves as the winter guard program coordinator, and the visual team lead for the Jefferson Marching Bronchos. They hold a Bachelors of Music in Music Education from Butler University and a Masters of Library and Information Science from Indiana University Indianapolis.

Cade Samons

Senior Administrative Specialist

Cade Samons has been involved with the Blue Stars organization since 2018. This is his 5th year as a member of the admin staff. Before joining admin, Cade marched mellophone for the Blue Stars from 2018 to 2021.

Cadegraduated from the University of Kentucky in 2022 with a Bachelors in Music Education. He worked in Kentucky as the assistant director of bands for Anderson County Schools in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky directing the middle school bands, and assisting with the Anderson County High School Marching Band. Currently he works as an Assistant Band Director at Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Worth, Texas.

Mackenzie Miller

Merchandising Assistant

Miller is so excited to be back with the Blue Stars for their second season on the Souvie team, as well as being a part of the admin team!

Between the summer seasons Miller dedicates their time to supporting individuals with special needs through their work at The Arc of York and Adams. Alongside this, they are also involved in the indie and alternative live music scene, gaining experience on the road selling merchandise and taking photos for artists touring the U.S.

Although 2026 is only Miller’s second season being involved with a drum corps, they have been a fan of DCI since high school, where they were a section leader in their High School’s marching band.

They found a huge joy taking part of the 2025 season, and is so excited to see what the 2026 season brings!!

Samantha Jensen

Administrative Specialist

This is Sam's first season with the Blue Stars but previously marched flag with the Colts DBC in 2021. Samantha also participated in the Purdue All-American Marching Band (as part of the guard) and the Purdue University Winterguard throughout college, leading to a WGI bronze medal in 2023. 

Sam holds a degree in Brain and Behavioral Sciences from Purdue University and currently lives/works in the Lafayette area, both in the psychology field and as the colorguard director at Lafayette Jefferson High School.

Jordon Pinchback

Administrative Specialist

Jordon Pinchback currently resides in the greater Orlando, FL metropolitan area and brings a wealth of experience in post-secondary education administration. 

In addition to his professional work, Jordon actively contributes to the marching and performing arts community through various leadership roles. He serves as Board Secretary for Siege Performing Arts, Inc.; Assistant Director of Siege Percussion (PIO); Corps Director for River City Rhythm Drum and Bugle Corps; and Administrative  Specialist for the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps. His creative contributions also include work as a visual specialist, choreographer, performance coach, and membership coordinator.

Jordon is currently pursuing a Master’s in project management to further enhance his administrative and leadership skills. Outside of his professional and artistic commitments, he enjoys exploring Florida’s nature preserves and beaches.

Finn Herrmann

Administrative Specialist

Finn Herrmann is currently the Band Director at Rockford Middle School in Rockford, Minnesota. He received his Bachelor of Music Education from Boston University in 2025, studying trumpet with Terry Everson.

He marched with the Blue Stars from 2023 to 2024 and has stayed with the corps on the admin team since 2025. During this time, Finn has worked on visual staff at the Quincy/North Quincy High School marching band in Massachusetts and as visual coordinator for the Canal Winchester High School marching band in Ohio.

Ashley Elliott

Administrative Specialist

Ashley aged out with Blue Stars on team time in 2024, and joined the admin team in 2025.

Ashley graduated with a B.A. in Communication from Western Carolina University. During her college career, she marched with the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band and served as a drum major.

Currently, Ashley is pursuing a master’s degree at George Mason University working toward an M.A. in Communication.  

Vanessa Solis

Administrative Specialist

Vanessa Solis became an Administrative Specialist for the Blue Stars after aging out with the corps in 2024. Her passion for the performing arts began at Little Elm HS in Little Elm, TX. Since then, she went on to perform within the Mirage Performance Ensembles organization, where she earned the WGI Bronze medal in 2024.

Over the years, Vanessa went on to assist several programs within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, including Frisco HS, Wylie East HS, & Frisco Centennial HS. She now serves as a part of the color guard staff at Little Elm High School.

Vanessa holds a degree in Psychology from the University of North Texas, graduating magna cum laude.

Madelyn Tracy

Administrative Specialist

Madelyn Tracy is an undergraduate student at Furman University pursuing a dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music and Communication Studies on the Media Studies Track and an Interdisciplinary Minor in Film Studies. She studies clarinet with Dr. Stacy Christofakis and is a recipient of both music and academic scholarships.

During her time at Furman, Madelyn has been an active member of Furman’s music department. She is involved in the symphonic band, symphony orchestra, marching band, and chamber ensembles. Along with her participation in performing ensembles, Madelyn is a part of the Furman’s chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota, Theta Lambda and serves as Editor.

Previously, Madelyn worked with the Crossmen Drum and Bugle Corps during the 2025 season as a Music Education Admin Intern. She has always loved drum corps and is incredibly excited to continue her drum corps journey with the Blue Stars!

Tara Brazel

Media Lead

Tara is a performing arts photographer based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her previous work includes acting as the Marketing and Social Media Manager for the Jersey Surf Drum and Bugle Corps, as well as serving as an official event photographer for clients such as WGI, TRWEA, Box 5, and Cavalcade of Bands.

Outside of the marching arts, Tara is a concert photographer, previously working under notable artists like Porter Robinson and Melanie Martinez. She has worked in media, community management, and merchandising on regional and national tours for a number of musical artists.

Tara has been a part of the Blue Stars organization since 2020, where she was a member of the mellophone section for three years before joining the administrative team in 2023. She transitioned into being a photographer for the corps in 2024 and 2025 and is very excited to return to the Blue Stars as the Media Lead.

Aidan Wilson

Administrative Specialist

Aidan Wilson joined the Blue Stars in 2022 and in 2023 as a Baritone performer. He's very excited to join the team this season assisting in the admin team and day to day finances!

Aidan is a recent graduate at Oklahoma State University with a Bachelors in Music Industry with a Minor in Business, Music Composition, and Music Theory.

Aidan loves the Blue Stars for their high level of care, attention to detail, and education at all times. Changing lives for people on the field and in the crowd.

Finis Coronat Opus.

Taylor Holmes

Photographer

Taylor Holmes is a Missouri-based photographer and content producer.

She creates compelling imagery and multimedia content for high-energy performance organizations, capturing both the artistry and emotion of every moment.

She currently works as a content producer for OneBeat Dance Brands as well as a photographer for Blue Stars. Her work also includes collaborations with Mizzou Athletics, Marching Mizzou, FloMarching, Jupiter Instruments, Music for All, and WGI Sport of the Arts, among others.

Taylor earned her Bachelors of Journalism from the University of Missouri in December 2024. She previously worked as a reporter and producer at KOMU 8 News, where she honed her storytelling skills and ability to produce high-quality content under tight deadlines.

Her work emphasizes performance-driven storytelling, capturing authentic moments and creating content that elevates the artists and organizations she collaborates with.

Wesley Littleton

Administrative Specialist

Wesley Littleton is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music Education with minors in Instrumental Performance and Psychology at McNeese State University. He serves as an Undergraduate Assistant for The Pride of McNeese Cowboy Marching Band, supporting the program through leadership and organizational responsibilities. Additionally, Wesley is serving a second term as the Senator for the College of Liberal Arts, where he works to foster legislation focused on the betterment and success of its students.

Wesley marched with the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps during the 2023 season. From the Fall of 2023 to 2025, he has worked with South Beauregard High School and Sulphur High School as a band technician, assisting with student development, rehearsal structure, and performance preparation.

This will be Wesley’s first year serving on the Blue Stars Administration Team, and he is excited to give back to the organization that played a meaningful role in his growth as a performer and educator. His passion for Music Education, along with the support of his wife and family, keeps him grounded and committed to student success and growth.

Josie Santiago

Photographer

Josie Santiago is a graphic designer and currently works in marketing in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She is a Ball State University alum, where she studied Media Design & Development and Studio Art. Josie spent three years marching with the Blue Stars on mellophone, and is excited to be on the Blue Stars media team for the second year!

Outside of the Blue Stars, Josie has also worked as a photographer with the Blue Knights in their 2025 season, and with WGI in 2026 at various regionals and at both Color Guard and Percussion Championships.

In addition to being a marching arts photographer, Josie is also a visual educator. She has been working with The Academy since their 2025 season, with Homestead Indoor Percussion for their 2026 season, and will be working with the Homestead Spartan Alliance Band in the fall.

Kirkland Terrell

Lead Team Vehicle Driver

Kirkland Terrell is in his first year on staff at the Blue Stars. He is an elementary music teacher in the DFW area. As a performer, Kirkland was a member of the 2016 Guardians hornline and was contracted with Troopers in 2017 throughout their camp season until the birth of his son. Kirkland was the inaugural Visual Vaption Head for Compass Drum and Bugle Corps in 2018.

After graduating with his Bachelors Begree in MusicEducation, he returned to the activity in 2024 as the Merchandise Manager for the Crossmen and returned to that role in 2025.

He enjoys playing the Pokemon trading card game with his 8 year old son Brayden and his fiancé Karrigan. Kirkland states that the “family vibes and always super fun shows” are what brings him to the Blue Stars and he cannot wait to be a part of the team!

Maddy Heintz

Photographer

Maddy Heintz is a creator and student at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, where she is pursuing a degree in Music Education. She is currently the main photographer for the University of Miami's Marching and Pep bands, and she takes headshots and recital photos for students within the Frost School.

She has been in the drum corps world since 2022, having worked with a number of renowned drum corps over the years – the Boston Crusaders, The Cadets, and most recently the former head drum major of the Santa Clara Vanguard in 2024. Outside of drum corps, she is a music and visual tech at both Gene Tomas High School in Richmond, Texas, and Coral Reef High School in Miami, Florida.

Introduced to photography at a young age, Maddy has had many years to develop the skill of telling stories through visual mediums. She is devoted to showcasing the intricacy of drum corps through her work, communicating the unique stories and experiences within it.