UNCP Staff Member Selected to March in 2026 Pasadena Rose Parade

Meggan Hollis will march with more than 300 band directors from across North America in the Pasadena Rose Parade on Jan. 1, 2026. She's an athletic band assistant and staff member in the UNCP Department of Music. The selection puts her in the Saluting America's Band Directors entry.

The group will accompany a float along the 5.5-mile parade route. Their entry carries the theme, "America's band directors: We teach music. We teach life."

These music educators have mentored and taught hundreds of thousands of students throughout their careers. They don't just teach and perform music. They shape lives.

Hollis said she's grateful for the chance to perform with the marching band again. "I marched in the Macy's Parade in 2023, which was a wonderful experience," Hollis said, according to The Robesonian. "You never think you'll have a chance to actually march in these national parades as an adult."

Jon Waters will direct the band. This music educator and director has earned national recognition for his innovative work. He'll lead rehearsals and other performances when in Pasadena.

The Michael D. Sewell Memorial Foundation sponsors the Saluting America's Band Directors project. The foundation was created to recognize and carry on the work of the late Mike Sewell. He dedicated his life to school and community music programs in Pickerington and the Central Ohio area for almost 40 years.

The Rose Parade entry aims to recognize the dedication and accomplishments of band directors and music educators everywhere.