The Voice of the Hawkeye Marching Band Establishes Legacy Fund
PHOTO: JOHN EMIGH
Lou Crist, the voice of the Hawkeye Marching Band, smiles as he announces one of the band’s pregame performances last season at the Recreation Building.
The Hawkeye Marching Band has more than doubled in size since Lou Crist capped off his first season in the ensemble with an appearance in the 1959 Rose Bowl. But 65 years later, some things haven’t changed—including the Crist family’s ongoing loyalty to the band.
Once a student baritone player, Crist (60BA, 81MA) now serves as the Golden Voice of the Hawkeye Marching Band. Crist has been announcing from the Kinnick Stadium press box since the 1981 season, letting fans know when “it’s time to get ready for the BOOM!”
“I’ve done the announcing since then and just enjoyed it immensely,” says Crist, who received a 2023 UI Distinguished Alumni Award in recognition of his service. “I like to kiddingly say that the directors are going to give me a try until I get it right.”
Crist’s wife, Jan Olson Crist (61BSN, 77MA), also used to accompany the band as its nurse. Throughout their many years traveling with the ensemble, the Crists have grown to cherish the relationships they have formed through the band.
“The band members are the most creative people, the nicest people you would ever want to be around,” says Jan. “We have always had a very good time with them.”
The couple recently established the Lou Crist Legacy Fund in honor of the Crist family, including Lou’s brother Lyndon Crist (66BM, 90MA), who also played in the Hawkeye Marching Band and died two years ago. The Crists created the fund to support the Hawkeye Marching Band in any of its needs. They have also made donations to enrich the UI School of Music’s Rita Benton Music Library.
After 43 years supporting the band, the Crists’ love for the Hawkeyes keeps them going. “It’s not a chore to do this,” says Jan. “It’s something that we’ve enjoyed.”
Adds Lou: “Having a chance over these years to be a part of the marching band has just been one of the finest experiences that I’ve ever had.”
