DENVER, CO – Ascend Performing Arts is pleased to announce the induction of two exceptional individuals into the Blue Knights Hall of Fame for 2025: Alex Factor and Leonard Robinson. These dedicated alumni have made profound and lasting contributions to the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps and the wider Ascend Performing Arts organization, embodying the spirit, dedication, and excellence that define our community.
Following in the tradition of recognizing individuals who have significantly impacted the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps, this year’s honorees represent different eras and facets of the drum corps’ rich history. Their unwavering commitment, tireless efforts, and innovative thinking have left an indelible mark on the organization and the lives of countless members.
The Hall of Fame was created to preserve the memory of the incredible people who have made a substantial, positive impact to the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps and who can serve as role models for present and future generations. The Blue Knights Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding alumni, educational staff, administrative staff, and volunteers who have contributed significantly to the organization.
The Hall of Fame Committee has selected the 2025 inductees who will be recognized at this year’s Drums Along the Rockies event at Colorado State University (get your tickets to the show here).
∴ Read about our past Blue Knights Hall of Fame Classes of here.
ALEX FACTOR
Alex Factor marched with the Blue Knights as a tuba player for four seasons, from 2011 to 2014, culminating in his role as Horn Sergeant in his age-out year. However, Alex’s commitment to the Blue Knights extended far beyond his time on the field.
Transitioning seamlessly into a dedicated volunteer, Alex took the initiative to revitalize the Alumni program, fostering a renewed sense of connection and engagement among former members. His passion for the organization led him to serve on the Ascend Performing Arts Board of Directors for many years, providing valuable guidance and leadership.
As a volunteer, Alex played a crucial role in ensuring a positive first impression for prospective members by leading the check-in process at Blue Knights BKXperience Audition camps and clinics. He empowered alumni to take ownership of this vital task, making it solely alumni-led for several years. Recognizing the need for leadership development, Alex spearheaded the creation of Ascend Performing Arts’ BKXperience Perform leadership clinics and training program, held at Friendship Cup Marching Band Competitions and Drums Along the Rockies.
Alex’s dedication to the alumni community reached its pinnacle with the triumphant return of the Blue Knights Alumni Corps in 2018. He initiated this ambitious project two years prior, gathering input from alumni through “Alumni Roundtables” and engaging with them at Drums Along the Rockies. His tireless efforts in building a dedicated team, securing resources, and managing logistics were instrumental in the Alumni Corps’ successful performance.
Furthermore, Alex’s work with the alumni association sparked the creation of several enduring initiatives, including the very first class of the Blue Knights Hall of Fame, the Blue Knights Alumni Scholarship for both the drum corps and indoor percussion ensemble, the Blue Knights Alumni of the Year award, and the annual “History Knight” event, connecting current members with the drum corps’ rich heritage.
Outside of Ascend Performing Arts, Alex is enjoying adventures with his young family and works as a Technology Lead at Forbright Bank. Alex’s previous experience includes working as a Web Developer at U.S. Bank and MakeMusic, Inc, helping make music education accessible to all performers.
Alex embodies the enduring impact of the Blue Knights experience, applying the lessons learned over a decade ago to his life and continuing to strengthen the performing arts community. His ongoing leadership and dedication as an active alumnus are truly commendable.
Nominated by: Blue Knights Hall of Famer, Gregory “GM” Kuzma
LEONARD ROBINSON
Leonard Robinson’s dedication to the Blue Knights is a testament to his deep-seated belief in the organization’s mission and his unwavering commitment to its success. His contributions span decades and encompass a wide range of vital support roles.
Upon moving to Denver, Leonard actively engaged in crucial fundraising efforts, including working Blue Knights Bingo – a meaningful way for him to give back after benefiting from the generosity of others during his marching years. His involvement in concessions at Broncos games further highlights his dedication to the drum corps’ financial stability.
Leonard’s commitment to fostering a positive environment for the members is evident in his selfless act of grilling burgers for the corps at multiple Memorial Day camps, creating a sense of camaraderie and care. Recognizing the importance of a strong alumni network, Leonard was a key figure in organizing the reboot of the Alumni Association, strengthening connections among former members and providing invaluable support to the current drum corps.
Beyond alumni engagement and fundraising, Leonard consistently volunteered his time and energy to ensure the smooth operation of various corps activities, including assisting with camp check-in. His leadership in hosting the Alumni Biergarten and numerous other alumni events during the 2004 Drum Corps International Finals significantly elevated the alumni experience during a pivotal event.
Leonard was also instrumental in establishing cherished traditions, notably helping to start the Age-out Dog Tag tradition, a meaningful way to commemorate the dedication of graduating members. His support extended to the drum corps and their families through his participation in Pancake Breakfast on Family Day, fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Furthermore, he actively promoted the Blue Knights spirit through T-shirt and Patch sales at Drums Along the Rockies and celebrated the drum corps’ legacy through his participation in the Alumni Corps performance during the 60th Anniversary celebration.
Perhaps one of Leonard’s most significant and long-lasting contributions was his visionary management of the Blue Knights website from approximately 1998 to 2014. During this time, he was a true pioneer, implementing innovative features that were ahead of their time within the drum corps community. These included online camp registration and fee payment, Blue Knights Bingo scheduling, eCommerce souvenir sales, and an online membership information portal, and what was widely considered the premiere DCI scores database.
Leonard Robinson’s sustained commitment and diverse contributions across fundraising, community building, operational support, and technological innovation through the decades make him an exceptionally deserving candidate for the Blue Knights Hall of Fame. His dedication has had a tangible and lasting positive impact on the organization and the lives of countless individuals associated with the Blue Knights.
Nominated by: Blue Knights Hall of Famer, Mark Arnold