Student Awards - The University of Tennessee Bands

Pride of the Southland Student Awards

The University of Tennessee Bands recognize outstanding student contributions through a number of annual awards that celebrate leadership, service, and commitment to the traditions of the “Pride of the Southland.” These honors highlight students who exemplify the values that define the UT Bands experience: dedication to musical excellence, respect for their fellow band members, and a willingness to go above and beyond in support of the program.

Selected by faculty, staff, and fellow band members, these awards reflect the spirit of community and pride that has shaped the UT Bands program for generations.

P.R.I.D.E Award

The P.R.I.D.E. Award is the highest individual honor presented to a current member of the “Pride of the Southland” Marching Band. Voted on by members of the band, the award recognizes a student who best exemplifies the P.R.I.D.E. Maxims: Preparation, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence.

Recipients are selected for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to upholding the traditions and values that define the Pride of the Southland.

Previous Award Recipients

2022 – Chandler DeArmond (Finalists: Jonathon Myers; Julia Boylan; Eli Garcia; Pate Dennis; Autumn Bowling; Austin Kerr; Aaron O’Donnell; Stephanie Hensley; Joshua Sizemore)

2023 – Christian Carroll (Finalists: Chandler DeArmond; Pate Dennis; Sydney Flenniken; Eli Garcia; Ryan Hulsey; Austin Kerr; Ploomie Messer; Aaron O’Donnell; Jessie Williams)

2024 – Ryan Hulsey (Finalists: Christian Carroll; Carson Duckworth; Jake Ensor; Tyler Guthrie; Austin Kerr; Ploomie Messer; Ben Strobel; Ella Summers; Troy Weatherford)

2025 – Antonio Fleming (Finalists: Christian Carroll; Carson Duckworth; Jake Ensor; Sydney Flenniken; Ryan Hulsey; Ashlynn Mathews; Evan Norris; Ben Strobel; Preston Turner)

Mike Dooley UT Band Service Award

The Mike Dooley UT Band Service Award recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional service to the University of Tennessee Bands program. This honor is presented to individuals who consistently go above and beyond in supporting their fellow band members and contributing to the success of the Pride of the Southland.

The award is named in memory of Mike Dooley, whose tireless dedication and service left a lasting impact on the UT Bands community.

Previous Award Recipients

2006 – Matt Armstrong

2007 – Chris Saneford

2007 – Stephanie Elder

2007 – Monica Harris

2009 – Matt Rutherford

2009 – Lydia Zeller

2009 – Daniel Brinley

2010 – Lauren Goldberg

2013 – Maggie Miller

2014 – Natalie Renfroe

2014 – Brandon Pettigrew

2015 – Sarah Emmons

2016 – Christal Lane

2017 – Anu Kumar

2018 – Kayla Williams

2022 – Pate Dennis

2024 – Ploomie Messer

2024 – Tyler Guthrie

2025 – Rachel Stewart