The Mineola Band Boosters awarded $500 scholarships to three deserving Sound of the Swarm seniors: Megan Holt, Brianna Bethel and Ana Cruz. The candidates were chosen primarily for their plans to pursue music through a chosen major or by participation in a music program at a post-secondary institution. 

The three recipients did not know they would be receiving the scholarship and all three felt surprised and honored.

Ana Cruz said she didn’t know what to expect of the scholarship opportunity and was delighted with the results.

“I kept thinking, there are so many other seniors that really need this. My mind kept going over incredible seniors that have done incredible things for our band and that absolutely deserve this.”

Cruz will actually be majoring in nursing at Tyler Junior College in the fall.

Megan Holt admitted that she was definitely hoping to get the scholarship.

“I have always loved band and worked hard at it. I feel honored to have received this scholarship. There are many talented seniors in many capacities.”

Holt will be studying music education at Texas A&M University in Commerce. 

Brianna Bethel exclaimed that she still can’t believe she is receiving the scholarship.

“It is a great pleasure to think that others think I deserve it among the other amazing seniors. I’m so thankful.”

Bethel will be minoring in music and majoring in counseling at Texas Bible College. She plans either to continue her education in social work or to become a teacher.