Meet Our Board of Directors

The Grant Drum Line has been serving our youth without a paid staff, part-time or full -time, operating entirely through volunteer efforts. Our Board of Directors has 5 members:

James Van Buren, President 

Musical director, choreographer, driver and chaperone, chief grant writer, and program leader.  Mr. V is also a math and special education teacher since 2007.

Shirley A. Roberts, Vice President 

Shirley has spent more than 30 years as a teacher in the Grant Joint Union High School District, educating students in the subjects of English and Drama.

Jerome Najee Rasheed

An acclaimed saxophonist and flute player, Najee is one of the most successful and recognizable crossover jazz and R&B performers of his generation. Known for his warm, lyrical sound, he built upon the tradition of predecessors like Grover Washington, Jr., Ronnie Laws, and Stanley Turrentine. 

Harry Block, Treasurer

Presently serving on the Gateway Community Charters school board, counseling students in crisis through years of coaching and serving on the DPH School board for over 18 years.

Tamara Eugene, Secretary

Proud alumni of Grant Union High School, currently serves as the Theater Production teacher under the GHS Arts Academy and the Pacerette Dance Coach.

Dr. John Pellman

A teacher for 10 years of English for students with disabilities and digital media. He is also a youth soccer coach.

Jaime Sanchez

A dedicated Special Education teacher at Grant Union High School and a longtime supporter of the GDLMA. A passionate advocate for students, he has played a key role in their success both in and out of the classroom. In 2015, Jaime joined GDLMA's historic 4th of July Presidential Parade performance in Washington, D.C. His commitment to education and the arts continues to inspire the Grant community.

GDLMA Board MemberShoun Thao

Executive Director of Hmong Youth and Parents United, a Sacramento-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and marginalized communities. In March 2024, he was unanimously appointed by the Sacramento City Council to serve as the interim District 2 Councilmember, holding the position until December 2024. A graduate of Grant Union High School and the University of California, Davis, Shoun has a strong connection to the community.

GDLMA Board MemberBig Al Sams (1969-2025)

Big Al Sams was a beloved feature reporter for Good Day Sacramento on KMAX-TV and KOVR-TV. Beyond his work in television, he was a correspondent, event host, and voiceover artist whose voice and presence brought joy to many. His career in radio began as a late-night show host, eventually moving to mid-days and afternoon drive. His passion, warmth, and storytelling will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Get in Touch

For booking and gigs, please contact Mr. V at 916-202-7972.
You can also reach him by email.

Connect with the Grant Drum Line Music Association

*The Grant Drum Line Music Association is made up from the Alumni of Grant Union High School, members of the Del Paso Heights Community, Parents, Coaches, and Educators from Greater Del Paso Heights Region. The Grant Drum Line Music Association is not supported by the Twin Rivers Unified School District nor does it receive funds from any of its High Schools; We exist to provide support for students beyond the limitations and scope of public-school funding, and provide positive life altering experiences for students in the community. We appreciate all the support, the donations, sponsorships, community, partners, and volunteers who make our vision and mission come true. Thank you!

© 2025 Grant Drum Line Music Association