Meet the band

By Elizabeth Leffall
The Collegian

Name: Chris Williams
Year: 2001 graduate, McNair Scholar
Major: received bachelor’s degree in Psychology
Claim to Fame: field show designer, 4 years
Why did you return to Fresno State? “I love working with these people. You have the best of the best here. Everyone here has made it academically so your band comes from a collegiate environment. It’s an excellent experience.”

Name: Phil Vallejo
Year: 2001, 2005 graduate
Major: received bachelor’s degree in music education; Master’s degree in music performance
Claim to Fame: graduate assistant, 2 years, percussion captain head, 1 year
What was your most memorable moment? “I was performing during the summer and this lady came up to me after the show and told me that since her boys were in Iraq she hasn’t smiled and that I made her smile for the first time in a long time.”
Time spent as a Bulldog band member: 4 years

Name: Elisha Vallejo
Year: Senior, transfer from University of Houston
Major: Music education
Claim to Fame: head drum major
Why did you choose Fresno State? “I came with my husband Phil. Even though I got into UCLA and USC I immediately noticed the involvement the band had in school activities. The faculty really impressed me too because they’re professionals first before teaching.”