Member Spotlight – Jarod Ricks (Colorguard)

Jarod Ricks is a sophomore at UNC Charlotte, majoring in business with a concentration in management information systems and minoring in journalism. After graduation, he plans to continue his education at the graduate level where he then plans to become a business database analyst. This is his second year as part of the PNNMB Colorguard and his first year on the weapon line. When he isn’t devoted to his studies, Jarod likes to spend time with his friends and volunteer as a Niner Guide for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at UNC Charlotte.

Jarod is from Rockingham, NC and graduated from Richmond Senior High School in 2015. He was a member of the Richmond Senior High School “Marching Raiders” for four years where he marched clarinet for three years and colorguard one year. He was the clarinet section leader his junior year and the colorguard captain his senior year. He was also a member of Cumberland Independent Winter Guard for one season. His favorite part about marching band (colorguard specifically) is that it gives him a way to express himself in a way that no other activity allows.

Here’s what Jarod has to say about the PNNMB:

“Last year when I was looking for colleges to attend, I definitely wanted one that had a marching band. Upon seeing that UNC Charlotte was having a first-year program, I knew I had to join! It was such an honor and amazing experience to march last year in the inaugural season of the PNNMB. As a male colorguard member, I was anxious about joining a collegiate marching band, but now that I’m in it, I’ve found that my fellow members have become like a family to me. I’m beyond happy that there’s an outstanding organization right here at UNC Charlotte that allows me to show my passion for this activity!”

By Dr. Chesley Black, Student Leadership Program & Media Director