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Tri-M® Music Honor Society's 2025-2026 Award Winners Announced

The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) has recently revealed the acclaimed recipients of the 2025-2026 Tri-M® Music Honor Society National and State Chapters of the Year. Founded to recognize exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to music education, this initiative underlines the importance of music in fostering community engagement and personal growth among students.

What is the Tri-M® Music Honor Society?

Tri-M® (Modern Music Masters) is a prestigious honor society designed specifically for middle and high school students who excel in music education. Established in 1985, it aims to highlight students' academic success and musical accomplishments while encouraging them to engage in community service. The honor society has grown significantly over the years, boasting over 9,700 chapters and approximately 80,000 members across the United States.

With over $145,000 awarded in Chapter of the Year scholarship funds to various chapters, the Tri-M program empowers students to undertake professional development activities. These scholarships can be utilized for clinicians, master classes, conferences, field trips, and summer music programs.

National Chapters of the Year

This year, the honor of National Chapter of the Year was awarded in both Junior and Senior divisions:

• - Senior Division:

- Winner: McHenry Community High School, McHenry, Illinois (Chapter Number 139) - Advisor: Tracy Tobin
- First Runner Up: Christian Brothers Academy, Syracuse, New York (Chapter Number 1176) - Advisor: Timothy Davis
- Second Runner Up: Ursuline Academy of New Orleans, Louisiana (Chapter Number 1186) - Advisor: Helen Myers

• - Junior Division:

- Winner: Dillon Middle School, Dillon, South Carolina (Chapter Number 9021) - Advisor: Kevin McLellan
- First Runner Up: Christ the Teacher Catholic School, Newark, Delaware (Chapter Number 7573) - Advisor: Richard Johnson
- Second Runner Up: Colonel Smith Middle School, Fort Huachuca, Arizona (Chapter Number 9966) - Advisor: Nathan Darus

Both winning chapters received engraved plaques and scholarship awards to further enhance their music programs and encourage professional development.

State Chapters of the Year

In addition to the national accolades, several schools across the six NAfME divisions were recognized for their remarkable contributions to music education. Each State Chapter of the Year winner will receive personalized banners to commemorate their achievements. Here are some examples of state winners:

• - Connecticut: Darien High School, Darien (Chapter Number 1438) - Advisor: Jane Minnis
• - California: Tesoro High School, Rancho Santa Margarita (Chapter Number 8511) - Advisor: Yeon Choi
• - South Carolina: Dillon High School, Dillon (Chapter Number 9941) - Advisor: Adrian Wright

These awards reflect the hard work and commitment of music educators and students to make a significant impact in their communities through music.

The Role of NAfME

The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is a vital organization advocating for equitable access to music education across the United States. Since its inception in 1907, NAfME has been at the forefront of music education policy and has been instrumental in providing resources for educators, students, and community stakeholders. Representing over 57,000 members, NAfME emphasizes the importance of musical learning in classrooms and encourages lifelong engagement in music.

The Tri-M® Music Honor Society stands as a testament to the vital role music plays in education and the relentless efforts of students and educators alike. By recognizing and rewarding outstanding chapters, NAfME helps promote an enriching experience that inspires students to learn, lead, and engage through music.

For more details about the Tri-M® Music Honor Society, visit nafme.org/tri-m and follow them on social media @TriMNAfMEOfficial.

As we celebrate these achievements, it is essential to recognize the dedication of those involved and their contributions to fostering a love of music in future generations.