Spirit of Atlanta Executive Director to Transition to Senior Advisory Role

ATLANTA, GA – Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corps announced today that Jason Burns will step down as Executive Director effective January 1, 2026. This move follows Burns’ decision to transition away from daily executive management after successfully guiding the organization’s return to the field and competitive status.

Burns will remain an integral part of the organization. Effective immediately upon his resignation, he will assume the role of Senior Advisor, where he will continue to offer strategic guidance and support to the leadership and marketing teams.

Burns took the helm during a critical juncture for Spirit of Atlanta. His tenure was defined by a singular focus: revitalizing the corps’ operations and ensuring a successful return to the DCI tour. Under his leadership, the organization successfully resumed competitive touring, implemented the SpiritSAFE program—setting a new standard for member safety and organizational compliance—and achieved three consecutive seasons of record-breaking fundraising support.

“When I stepped into the Executive Director role, my priority was to ensure Spirit of Atlanta returned to the field safely and competitively,” said Jason Burns. “We have built a safety-first culture with SpiritSAFE, engaged our alumni and donor base at record levels, and re-established our competitive presence. I am proud of the foundation we have built, and I believe this is the right time for me to step back from the day-to-day operations while continuing to support the corps in a new capacity.”

With these operational pillars in place, the Board of Directors has opted for a continuity plan for the upcoming season rather than an immediate external search for a new Executive Director. For the 2026 season, executive responsibilities will be managed collaboratively by the Board and the existing senior leadership team. This structure allows the corps to focus fully on the 2026 tour while assessing long-term leadership needs.

“Jason has been instrumental in navigating the complex process of bringing Spirit of Atlanta back to the field,” said George Dickinson, Board President. “His focus on operational improvements and member safety was exactly what we needed during this phase of our history. We are grateful that he will remain with us as an advisor, ensuring we retain his experience as we move forward.”

About Spirit of Atlanta Founded in 1976, Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corps is a premier youth performing arts organization based in Atlanta, Georgia. As a member of Drum Corps International (DCI), Spirit of Atlanta offers hundreds of young musicians and performers the opportunity to develop life skills, character, and leadership through the pursuit of performance excellence. The corps is widely recognized for its rich history, entertaining Southern jazz style, and the iconic "Delta" logo. For more information, visit www.spiritofatlanta.org.