Jay Gephart, the director of Purdue University Bands, has been honored with a commemorative brick at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Pagoda Plaza. This recognition celebrates Gephart’s significant contributions to the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band and his long-standing relationship with the Indianapolis 500.
Jay Gephart’s Career Highlights
- Served as director of the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band for approximately 19 years
- Holds the position of Al G. Wright Chair of Purdue Bands and Orchestras
- Joined Purdue University’s faculty in 1995
- Appointed Director of University Bands in November 2006
Transition in Roles
While stepping down from his role as director of the All-American Marching Band, Gephart will continue to:
- Serve as the chair of Purdue Bands and Orchestras
- Work with various ensembles, particularly the Wind Ensemble, which he has a special affinity for
Personal Attributes
Colleagues and acquaintances describe Jay Gephart as:
- An upstanding gentleman
- Great to work with
- Having a positive outlook and finding the best in people
- A source of fascinating stories from his experiences with bands, football, and halftime shows
The Honor at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The commemorative brick at the Pagoda Plaza of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a testament to Gephart’s impact on the Purdue Bands program and its long-standing relationship with the Indy 500. The Purdue “All-American” Marching Band has been the official band of the Indianapolis 500 race since 1919.
Fans attending the Indianapolis 500 in May, whether for practice sessions or Carb Day, are encouraged to visit Jay’s brick at the Pagoda Plaza and pay their respects to this influential figure in the Purdue and Indianapolis communities.