By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Fifteen seniors, each of whom gave four years of their talents and commitment to the program, headlined a group of award winners at the annual year-end Union City High School band banquet.
The widely-celebrated Tornado band – under the direction of longtime director Jason Deem – added to their list of successful years with numerous honors and accolades during the 2025-26 school year.
A gifted collection of seniors each received a plaque for their service and leadership.
Among those recognized were: (see photo)
Front Row – Rushdon Howell, Tristan Lynch, Nathan Finch, Gavin Arnold, Trey Jackson, Trent Craddock, Cara Hawks
Back Row – Byron Abbott, Jeremy Rice, Eli Jones, Gracie Worrell, Landon McAdams, Brendyn Vazquez, Natalie Soto, Kinsley Campbell
Deem also honored several members for their individual abilities.
Chosen for Outstanding Musician Awards from their respective classes were: (see photo)
Freshman – Wes Worrell
Sophomore – Haylee Record
Juniors – Adrian McKinnie and Madi Pate
Senior – Landon McAdams
The John Phillip Sousa Award for the highest achieving musician went to Landon McAdams for the second time in his high school career.
Members of the color guard and the band voted on their respective top awards, with Gracie Worrell receiving the 2026 Color Guard Award, and the 2026 Arion Award presented to Byron Abbott.