MOUNT VERNON – Six Knox County students were recognized recently for their musical expertise by the Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon.
The club had its 16th annual John Philip Sousa Awards Luncheon on May 11, and recognized one outstanding student from each of the county’s high schools for their superior musicianship, leadership, dependability, and loyalty.
The Sousa Award is the most prestigious award for high school band students.
John Philip Sousa was not only a renowned composer and band leader, but he was also a strong supporter of school music programs. A pillar of American music, Sousa’s music inspires everyone who hears and performs it.
Each student was introduced by their band director and presented with a trophy and certificate. Parents were included in the ceremony.
The award recipients for 2026 were:
Allison Wilhelm, Centerburg High School.
Ethan Swendal, Danville High School.
Hunter Calbert, East Knox High School.
Sala Glandon, Mount Vernon High School.
Elizabeth Dudgeon, Knox County Career Center.
Caleb Smith, Fredericktown High School.
About Kiwanis
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time.
For more information about the Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon and its programs, please visit us Facebook at facebook.com/KiwanisClubOfMountVernonOhio.
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