When the Eagles basketball teams take the floor for home games, the University of Mary Washington Pep Band makes sure fans’ excitement stays high until the final buzzer sounds. The band, formed this year, is an officially recognized student group with about 20 members. One of the most spirited is Ronald May ’16. Not only does the band pump up athletes and spectators, it connects with the community by inviting local high school students to perform during games. “We get a lot of positive comments, especially when people see us for the first time,” said bandleader Jim Ford, an adjunct instructor of music. The faculty adviser is Kevin Bartram, director of the orchestra.