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Mississippi Bandmasters Association
honors WCU’s Dr. Travis Coakley
Dr. Travis Coakley of William Carey University received the “2025 Outstanding Contributor of the Year Award” Dec. 12 during a meeting of the Mississippi Bandmasters Association. The award was presented by MBA’s Phi Beta Mu fraternity, which honors excellence, preserves legacy, promotes fellowship and supports music education.
“Dr. Travis Coakley is a musician, educator, and leader. He has devoted his career to elevating the standards of music education, empowering young musicians, and building communities. His impact is visible through the programs he has led and the generations of students he has educated,” said Jamie Young, MBA past president.
Coakley said he’s not often surprised – but it happened when he heard his name announced as the award recipient.
“I’m so appreciative to Phi Beta Mu and the awards committee. This award recognizes service to music education and school band programs throughout the state of Mississippi – and participation in a school band program changed the trajectory of my life. I will forever be looking for ways to give back to band directors and their programs to help the next generation of music students.”
Coakley spent 20 years as a high school band director at public schools in Florida, South Carolina and Mississippi – and served as director of fine arts and bands for the Biloxi Public School District. He joined William Carey University in 2023 as chair of instrumental activities and music education. He was named associate dean of the Winters School of Music in summer of 2025.
Dr. Brandon Hardin, dean of the WCU School of Music, describes Coakley as a dedicated servant leader.
“I have the privilege of working alongside Dr. Coakley every day. His proven track record is impressive, but it’s his genuine, steadfast Christian character that serves as the foundation for his work. This award is an affirmation of his deep desire to further music education, and we couldn’t be prouder,” Hardin said.
Coakley’s duties include supervising the band department, which has grown more than 80 percent. The Spirit of Carey marching band has almost 200 members. Winters School of Music has three concert bands – Symphonic Winds, Wind Symphony and Concert Band. A new jazz ensemble debuted in fall 2025. The annual Carey Honor Band Clinic attracts more than 300 high school students from across the region and the high school jazz festival celebrated its sixth anniversary this fall.
Mississippi Bandmasters Association presented Dr. Travis Coakley with its “2005 Outstanding Contributor of the Year Award.”
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