CSE student named 18th Block Captain for University of Minnesota Marching Band

Brennen Lishman is excited to create an environment where everyone has what they need to succeed

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (06/30/2026) - College of Science and Engineering (CSE) student Brennen Lishman was named the 18th Block Captain of the University of Minnesota Marching Band earlier this year.

The Block Captain works closely with the band's faculty, staff and leadership team to serve the needs of all band members while continuing to serve as a regular member of the ensemble. 

Lishman, a three-year recipient of the Norman Family Scholarship, is a fourth year student studying Mathematics with a minor in Statistics. Originally from Golden Valley, Minn., where he was involved in many music activities including concert, jazz and marching bands, various choirs including the Chamber Singers and even performed in the pit orchestra for the school musicals.

Learn more about why Lishman wanted to be a part of the marching band and why he chose his major in the Q+A below.

Why did you want to be a part of the band at the University?

My interest in the band started during my college search. As I was looking through my options near home, I was drawn to the opportunities and community that comes with the marching band. It made me look back on times I had seen the band in high school at the Outback Bowl and indoor concerts. I saw the marching band as an incredible opportunity to meet new people and participate in an ensemble that represents the University of Minnesota and the entire state. I was a part of many different ensembles in high school and the marching band seemed like the best and most unique way to continue engaging in music at a Big 10 university.

Did you always want to be the Block Captain?

I did not always want to be Block Captain. I really fell in love with the idea of the role during the 2025 spring semester when I participated in the Drum Major/Block Captain audition process. I only decided to go through the process to learn more leadership skills and get to know band members from other sections better. I loved the opportunity and experience it brought and knew I wanted to return for spring 2026 when I eventually was chosen for the role. 

Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?

I chose the University of Minnesota for many reasons. First, it was close to home and I wanted the chance to be close to my family. Second, I loved the span of majors in CSE as many other schools have their engineering majors separated from sciences and math. Finally, the many opportunities that a large institution brings including the marching band and other student groups, sports and activities made me sure that I would find many things to love at the University of Minnesota.

How did you choose your major?

Throughout my first year in school I was unsure of my major. I did come in with Mathematics as my intention — which is where I ended up staying -– but it was my first year of classes that really drew me into the math major. I appreciated the opportunity to work with peers in majors that span all of CSE during my first year as I narrowed down my options towards math. I love math for the chance to learn about different ways to solve problems using logic and proof, and then apply those tools to solve problems in the real world. 

What has been the highlight of your University of Minnesota/CSE experience?

I would say that the highlight of my experience at the University has been the marching band. Most of my closest friends have come from band and I have had the opportunity to represent the University and the state on campus and throughout the community. Seeing the joy we bring during game days, parades and other community events is incredibly rewarding and inspiring.

Scholarship impact

Lishman has also been supported by the 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025-26 Herb and Annette Nichols Undergraduate Scholarship in Mathematics and the 2025-26 Langworthy Drumline and Twirler Marching Band Scholarship. Find out more about how you can make a gift to support students.

Story by Kalie Pluchel