THIBODAUX, La. – The family of local music education hall of famers John and Beverly Stafford has established the at ÐÓ°É´«Ã½. This scholarship is designed to support the next generation of band directors by providing financial assistance to senior-level Instrumental Music Education majors.
The endowment honors the legacy of the Staffords, a couple whose combined careers have shaped the musical landscape of South Louisiana for over 60 years. Both John and Beverly are members of the Louisiana Music Educators Association Hall of Fame and the District VII Band Directors’ Hall of Fame.
John Stafford served as the band director for West Thibodaux Junior High and Thibodaux High School, leading his ensembles to consistent Superior ratings and national accolades, including a first-place finish at the Deep South Marching Band contest in the Superdome. John was the District VII Band Director of the Year in 1972, 1976 and 1989. He also served as a supervisor of student teachers for ÐÓ°É´«Ã½ for 14 years.
Beverly Stafford, a trailblazer in elementary music education, spent 25 years at South Thibodaux Elementary. Her emphasis on music theory and foundational training created a system that allowed local junior high and high school programs to perform complex, award-winning pieces. Her commitment to excellence was evidenced by her bands receiving Superior ratings at district festivals for 25 consecutive years. She was a leader in the profession, sharing her expertise as a consultant for the Music Educators National Conference.
The scholarship will provide $750 per academic year, with $375 dispersed in the fall and spring semesters. There is potential for the award amount to increase as the endowment grows.Ìý
To honor the Staffords’ commitment to local education, the scholarship features specific criteria. Recipients must:Â
- Be a full-time senior enrolled at ÐÓ°É´«Ã½.
- Major in Instrumental Music Education.
- Have maintained at least a 3.0 GPA during their college career.
- Be a resident of Lafourche Parish.
- Although not required, preferably be a graduate of Thibodaux or E.D. White Catholic High School.
- Audition with an emphasis on Sight Reading.
- Have a history of participating in various groups, such as band, wind ensemble or music fraternities.
The Staffords began their teaching careers in Assumption Parish before spending the majority of their lives as band directors in Thibodaux. Over the decades, they inspired countless students through personal mentorship and led their ensembles to award-winning performances at local, state and national levels. Former students and community members are invited to contribute to this endowment, helping to grow a lasting legacy for a deserving future music educator in honor of two dedicated teachers.
For how to contribute to this endowment, please click .Ìý
For more information on how to apply, visit www.nicholls.edu/financial-aid/scholarships.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 29, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Payton Suire
Media Relations & Publications Coordinator,Â
985.448.4141 or payton.suire@nicholls.edu