2025 Students of Distinction
Dylan Shipman: A bold leader with a heart for harmony
Gig Harbor Now is posting profiles featuring the Students of Distinction being honored by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation. Peers, teachers or parents nominate students, who must be a graduating senior at a Peninsula School District school. A panel of community leaders selects students to be honored in one of seven categories: academics; athletics; career and technical excellence; community service; music, arts and drama; overcoming adversity; and science and technology.
These students will be celebrated during a banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Ocean5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr.
School: Peninsula High School
Category: Music, Arts and Drama
For Dylan Shipman, music began as just another elective in sixth grade. But what started as a simple interest quickly became a defining force in his life. Now a senior at Peninsula High School, Dylan has grown from a curious clarinetist into a confident and inspiring leader – serving as the senior Drum Major of the Seahawk Marching Band.
Dylan’s love for music deepened with each passing year, even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Where others may have found community on the field or court, Dylan found his on the stage and in the band room. Through the Peninsula band program, he discovered a sense of belonging and purpose, building leadership skills and forming lifelong bonds. “Band allowed me to have that ‘team’, the people who would support me, who I could push, and who I could lead,” he says.
Dylan Shipman
As Drum Major, Dylan has conducted his school’s ensembles at home football games, regional parades, and competitive festivals across the state, earning awards like Best Drum Major and Superior ratings for the Wind Ensemble. He’s also made his mark through recruitment efforts, mentoring younger musicians, and ensuring the band’s legacy continues strong.
Dylan has been recognized multiple times for his musical talents, including participation in the NAfME All-Northwest Honor Band, WMEA All-State Band, and consistent accolades at solo and ensemble competitions, including a recent 2nd-place finish at State. He credits his band director, Mrs. Hilborn, for seeing his potential early on and encouraging his growth. “She gave me opportunities to push myself – even when I wasn’t sure I could. She leads with heart and intention, and because of her, I found my voice as a leader.”
Outside of school, music is Dylan’s “happy place.” Whether conducting a show or spinning a jazz record, music is always with him. He’s inspired by greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Tommy Dorsey and values the creative freedom that music offers.
After graduation, Dylan plans to pursue a degree in Wildlife Conservation or Environmental Science at Oregon State University or Central Washington University, with hopes of becoming a Fish and Wildlife Police Officer. But no matter where life takes him, he plans to keep music close – joining university ensembles and carrying his passion forward.