Senior drum major Milagra McKesson makes history for the Betsy Band

ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL)—The members of the Betsy Band work hard to make their shows the best they can be. But one student’s dedication and hard work helped her make history.

Elizabethton senior Milagra McKesson has been part of the band for years, playing clarinet and performing as part of the color guard. She also helped conduct part of a show from the backfield.

For her senior year, she decided to do something different.

“I tried out for full-time drum major, and now I am full-time drum major,” said McKesson.

McKesson made history as the first person of color to lead the band in almost 100 years.

“I wanted to be an inspiration for anyone who has a dream that wants it,” McKesson said. “It’s going to be a long road, but you have the perseverance to keep going.”

Earning the drum major position is hard work, but band director Jonathan Valentine said McKesson’s hard work made her stand out.

“Drum majors are typically our best musicians and our best leaders,” Valentine said. “I mean, it’s the best of the best. [Milagra worked] her butt off for conducting and was one of the strongest conductors that I’ve seen in the drum major auditions since I have been here.”

McKesson’s bandmate, Sophomore Alyssa Hill, said the position is well deserved.

“It means a lot for me,” said Hill. “I’m very proud of her because she’s worked very hard.”

McKesson said she hopes her achievement will be encouraging to others.

“I’m not in it for the title,” said McKesson. “I’m here to help people and to be able to help and make the experience of band as fun as it was for me.”

The public will have the opportunity to meet McKesson and the rest of the band at the “Meet the Betsy Band” event on September 14th.

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