FLORENCE – The University of North Alabama “Pride of Dixie” Marching Band has received recognition from the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) as an exemplary collegiate marching program. Dr. Lloyd Jones, director of bands at UNA, has been invited to present a video of the band and speak about the processes and procedures used by the “Pride of Dixie” at the CBDNA conference.
“This is indeed a great honor to be recognized by others in the collegiate band ranks as one of the best,” said Jones. “Our students work diligently to produce a quality product that represents UNA in the finest manner. I am very proud for our students to receive this recognition. This would not be possible without the support of our alumni, administrators and faculty.”
University marching band programs from across the southeast were invited to submit videos of their performances to the CBDNA committee for consideration.
“The committee had a very difficult time in making the selections. All of the ensembles were incredible,” said Randall Coleman, associate director of bands at the University of Alabama and member of the CBDNA committee.
Of all the programs submitted, the UNA “Pride of Dixie” was the only NCAA Division II band selected to be highlighted at the conference, which will be held in 
Charleston, South Carolina, February 18-20. Receiving this national recognition is not only important for the band program, but also for the university as a whole.
Dr. Ken Kitts
“This is a wonderful commentary on Dr. Jones and our students, and it represents great exposure for UNA as well,” said UNA president Ken Kitts.
This isn’t the first time the “Pride of Dixie” has received national recognition. The band has performed at many state, regional and national venues in recent years, including two appearances at the Bands of America Southeast Super Regional in the Atlanta Georgia Dome, and two appearances at the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, where the band performed for more than 20,000 spectators in Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts.
“It was so exciting to see all those fans from all over the country rise to their feet and give us standing ovations numerous times during the show,” said band member Elizabeth Yarbrough. “It really helps us to understand that UNA and the ‘Pride of Dixie’ are really something special.”
For more information about UNA Bands, visit una.edu/universitybands.
Media Release/University of North Alabama/Carole Maynard, UNA Department of Music
