The Patrick John Hughes Parent/Booster Award
The Patrick John Hughes Parent/Booster Award annually recognizes the extraordinary commitment, dedication, support and sacrifice of music parents and boosters around the world by shining a spotlight on an individual who exemplifies these qualities. The award is named in honor of Patrick John Hughes, the father of Patrick Henry Hughes. Patrick Henry is a remarkable young man who, despite physical challenges that would seem overwhelming to many, has excelled as a musician and student, singing and playing piano and trumpet with the Louisville Marching and Pep Bands, with the help of his father, who tirelessly maneuvers his son’s wheelchair through the formations with the other 220+ members of the Cardinal Marching Band.
The inspirational Hughes story has been featured on ESPN College Game Day, ABC World News, National Public Radio, Oprah and in Sports Illustrated and People magazine, among others. In 2008, the family was featured as a recipient of ABC’s “Extreme Home Makeover.” Patrick Henry Hughes, Patrick John Hughes, and Bryant Stamford are also the authors of the book “I Am Potential – Eight Lessons on Living, Loving, and Reaching Your Dreams.”
Selection Criteria
- Value of service
- Level of involvement with the music program
- Strength of the letters of support
- Results achieved by nominee
- Power of story to motivate others.
- Creativity of the nomination entry
- Audio/video support materials
Nominate the outstanding parent/booster in your life!
All current, active parents, boosters, or supporters of any scholastic music education program are eligible for nomination (nominees do not have to be affiliated with Bands of America or Music for All participating bands). Former or inactive parents, boosters and supporters of Bands of America and Music for All participating programs may also be nominated.
Applications for 2026 are open!
Applications are open now and will close Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST. The winner will be notified by September 28, 2026 and invited to participate in an awards ceremony at the Grand National Championships in Indianapolis on Friday evening, November 13, 2026. Music for All will provide hotel accommodations (one room, double occupancy) for three nights and VIP tickets to all Grand Nationals events for up to four family members. Round trip airfare will be provided for up to two people.