NE North Dakota News

Josh Gillen, the newly appointed director of the University of North Dakota's Pride of the North Marching Band, will make his debut at the upcoming Potato Bowl in Grand Forks. President Andrew Armacost introduced Gillen in a recent video address, highlighting his arrival and contributions to the university.

Gillen shared details about his background with Armacost, noting that he grew up in the South and began his career as an elementary and high school teacher after graduating from Auburn University. His interest in collegiate bands led him to shift career paths toward higher education music programs.

At UND, Gillen is introducing technological changes to the marching band’s operations. He plans to transition to paperless sheet music and use a mobile app for directing marching formations on the field.

Armacost discussed these updates with Gillen while reminding students and community members that the Potato Bowl game against Portland State is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday.

"President Andrew Armacost brings the 'Stand Up and Cheer' spirit to this week’s video address by introducing Josh Gillen, the new director for the Pride of the North Marching Band."

"Gillen, recently hired as assistant director of bands at UND, talks with Armacost about where he grew up, how he came to UND and what his first impressions have been of Grand Forks."

"Originally an elementary and high school teacher in the South after graduating from Auburn University, Gillen says his interest in collegiate bands and teaching drove him toward music, and he eventually changed career tracks."

"At UND, Gillen says he’s bringing some new tech to the Pride of the North — going paperless for sheet music and implementing a mobile app to help direct marching formations."

"Armacost asks how Gillen’s approach will show up on the field on Game Day, reminding the community that the Potato Bowl showdown with Portland State starts at 6 p.m. Saturday."