Mississippi State’s Famous Maroon Band is marching to the beat of a new accolade as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious national Sudler Trophy—considered the highest honor a collegiate marching band can receive.
Given biennially by the John Philip Sousa Foundation, the trophy is awarded to a college or university marching band demonstrating “the highest of musical standards and innovative marching routines and ideas, and which has made important contributions to the advancement of the performance standards of college marching bands over a number of years.”
Regarded as the “Heisman Trophy of the collegiate band world,” the Sudler Trophy can only be won by a band program once, recognizing the program’s history of excellence, tradition and national respect.
MSU President Mark E. Keenum, who wrote a letter of support for the band’s nomination for the prestigious award in November, said he was overjoyed at the FMB’s selection as the Sudler Trophy winner. In his letter supporting the nomination, Keenum said: “The band’s contributions to our university community reach far beyond the stadium or performance field. Its members are leaders in the classroom, ambassadors for our institution, and exemplary representatives of the values we hold dear at Mississippi State. Their tireless work, countless hours of rehearsal, and dedication to precision embody the spirit of determination and pride that defines our university.”
Keenum’s daughter, Katie, is an FMB member and trumpet section leader.
Elva Kaye Lance, MSU’s director of bands, said the award is a testament to the FMB’s rich legacy and the many people who contribute to its success.
“We are very humbled by this recognition,” Lance said. “There have been thousands of students who have proudly worn the uniform, and those of us who are serving as leaders of the band program at this time recognize we are standing on the shoulders of those who have served as members and leaders of the Famous Maroon Band throughout its rich history.”
Presented annually from 1982-2007, the Sudler Trophy has been given biennially since 2007 through a grant from Louis and Virginia Sudler. The FMB is the 35th collegiate marching band to receive the award and the only one in the state.
“The Sudler Trophy affirms what generations of Bulldogs have always known: The Famous Maroon Band stands as a national beacon of excellence, innovation and pride,” said Daniel Stevens, head of MSU’s Department of Music. “This honor celebrates the thousands of students, directors and supporters who built its legacy and inspires us to carry its mission forward with renewed purpose.”
Since its founding in 1902, the FMB has achieved national and international acclaim while inspiring pride among students, alumni and fans. Along with regular performances at football and basketball games, the FMB has made appearances in the Mississippi Governor’s inaugural parade, numerous bowl games and national basketball tournaments. Additionally, its Wind Ensemble has performed internationally in Austria, the Czech Republic, England, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Spain.
With its impact extending far beyond performance venues, the FMB hosts approximately 850 high school students for various events throughout the year on campus. Band faculty regularly present clinics and workshops throughout the state and region, including annual band director workshops as well as student leadership training. Band members participate in multiple charity events each year, from the Children’s Miracle Network Dance Marathon to the National Bone Marrow Registry, of which the FMB is one of the top participants in the country among college bands.
“The Famous Maroon Band’s remarkable impact, sustained excellence and success from local to international stages is not only a reflection of its talented members but also the strong leaders who support them,” said Teresa Jayroe, dean of MSU’s College of Education, which houses the Department of Music and FMB. “Year after year, our incredible band faculty inspire and challenge our students to reach outstanding musical standards while instilling the values of hard work and discipline. I am thrilled to see their dedication and success recognized with this prestigious award.”
The Sousa Foundation will formally present the Sudler Trophy to the FMB during the fall 2026 football season.