Dear Washington: Denali Cornwell - University of Washington Athletics

Dear Washington,

As I move on from the University of Washington, there are not enough words to express all the emotions I feel when I look back on my time in the Husky Marching Band. Husky Band has consistently been a focal point for my success and development as an individual at UW by providing countless opportunities for developing lifelong relationships, leadership skills, and performance mastery.

I remember looking ahead to college as a high school student, having my heart set on playing DI athletics. Growing up with family who were alumni and having the university practically in my backyard, UW was always my first choice when it came to college. Unfortunately, UW did not offer my primary sport, so I made the difficult decision to shift my priorities away from athletics to focus on my musical and academic strengths. With world-renowned academics and multiple ways to get involved with music, UW quickly became the place I aspired to be, and little did I know, I would end up right back on the field as part of a world-class DI program.

I was introduced to Husky Band through the connections I had in Seattle’s marching band scene, and when I received my acceptance to UW, I immediately registered to audition for a snare drum position on the drumline. I remember on the way to the audition, walking through the athletic complex for the first time, and being amazed yet intimidated by the larger-than-life facilities while thinking to myself: “How can I possibly fit in here without being an athlete?”. That question was quickly answered with a successful audition and being ushered into the Husky Band family with open arms, surrounded by a phenomenal group of diverse, like-minded peers that wanted to see me succeed.

During my first two years as member of the drumline, I thrived as an individual. Coming from my background in athletics, I was able to apply my relentless drive for excellence to my musical performances like never before, while maintaining my propensity for learning new skills at every rehearsal. This core attitude of discipline and accountability led to success not only in Husky Band, but in the classroom, as well, where I gained the confidence to overcome any challenge and was accepted into my intended major. After my second year in the drumline I knew I wanted to become more involved with Husky Band, so through another grueling and competitive audition process, I succeeded in becoming a Drum Major and held the position for my last three years.

Drum Majoring was an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which happened to land me in the perfect place to merge my athletic ability, leadership skills, and musical skills that I had been developing for so many years. It allowed me to develop my servant leadership style, truly embody Husky Band’s motto “Touch of Class,” and distill my core values of excellence, integrity, and respect. Most of all, it allowed me to forge lasting relationships with my peers and staff members who I will share lifelong memories with. From leading the band in the Rose Bowl Parade and onto the field in Pasadena, to performing the backbend during the national anthem on a sunny Saturday afternoon - the roar of the crowd infused with the jets of F-18’s flying overhead and Mt. Rainer in the background - this experience has been unforgettable.

So thank you Washington, for everything. Looking back, I would never have my college experience any other way and I am incredibly grateful that Husky Band and the UW athletic department have played such a critical role in my development. Truly, it is the staff and students that make being a Husky worth every second. Thank you to all the current and former Husky Band senior staff members I have had the pleasure to work with, Dr. Brad McDavid, Dan Fischer, Corey Jahlas, Dr. Doug Morin, Dr. Shayna Stahl, Steve Henry, and Craig Winter - without your guidance, I would not be half the person I am today. Thank you to all of the donors, support staff, media teams, and event organizers that work tirelessly behind the scenes to make our performances happen. Thank you especially to the entire Husky Band family for all your support over the years - I have learned so much from each and every one of you and I am so proud to be a part of the family.

To me, UW will always mean home, and Husky Band will always mean family.

Sincerely,

Denali Cornwell
Husky Marching Band, Lead Drum Major
Class of 2021