For the first time in FAMU’s legendary marching band history, a woman has been named head drum major. Meet Oluwamodupe “Dupe” Oloyede, the trailblazing Atlanta native who will lead the iconic Marching “100” into the 2025–2026 season.
Though she is only the second woman to ever wear the drum major uniform at FAMU, following Cori Bostick, Dupe now becomes the first woman to take the helm as head drum major, a move that’s already turning heads and inspiring hearts across the HBCU world.
A product of Southwest DeKalb High School, one of the most respected feeder programs into the Marching “100,” Dupe brought not only talent but proven leadership when she joined the band. While her primary instrument is the saxophone, it was her commanding field presence, sharp discipline, and natural leadership that set her apart.
Her message to young girls watching her historic rise is:
“You can do it, girl. You got this,” she said. “Let your work speak for itself, and nobody can deny you. And to the women who came before me, who were more than qualified, it’s in your honor.”
Dupe’s appointment reflects a growing shift in Black marching band culture, where female drum majors have always contributed but rarely led. While several HBCU bands have included women in their ranks, few have placed them at the very front.
Dupe isn’t just marching in history, she’s making it. And the best is yet to come.