This week, innocent acts of kindness by two Pride of Niner Nation Marching Band (PNNMB) members that were captured by a Clemson fan garnered a lot of positive social media attention. The two students, Rhea Lawhorn and Patrick Cunning, are surprised that their decision to help a Clemson fan navigate the stairs of Clemson’s football stadium,"Death Valley,” have become such a big deal.
Twice at last Saturday’s football game between the 49ers and Clemson Tigers, Joey McCombs, a Clemson fan, faced the steep climb in “Death Valley.” In both instances, PNNMB help was available.
“Rhea and I are blown away by such a high level of attention for a gesture that is just common decency,” said Cunning. “A little kindness goes a long way.”
Lawhorn added, “As band members we’re honored to be ambassadors of UNC Charlotte. After all, we are all Niners.”
For PNNMB, selflessness is the norm. Members take seriously an acronym, P.R.I.D.E., which stands for Passion, Respect, Inspire, Diversity Every day, that guides their daily lives.
In fact, band director Shayna Stahl, who joined the band as director earlier this year, often feels that she gets more from the students than she provides to them.
“I’m honored to be working with such a great group of students who continually shine a positive light on the program and the University,” said Stahl.
Amidst the buzz on social media, McCombs decided to extend his appreciation in person. On Tuesday, he made his way to campus to visit with Stahl and Shawn Smith, director of bands, to hand deliver a gift to the two students whose act of kindness has gone a long way.
