MOUNT VERNON – Five 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 outstanding students from county 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:
Michael Wallace, Centerburg High School.
Samuel Lyons, Danville High School.
Daniel Adams, East Knox High School.
Madeline Springer, Mount Vernon High School.
Dominic Holdren, 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.
Knox Community Hospital proudly supports the vibrant pulse of our community by sponsoring the Life & Culture section on Knox Pages, celebrating the stories and experiences that make our region unique.