The 2025 Top Hand Awarded to Cliff Croomes and the Longhorn Band

For the first time since 2021, the Jack Harbin Top Hand Award for extraordinary service was given out by the Texas Exes. That news was music to the ears of Cliff Croomes, BM ’01, Life Member, and the Longhorn Band, who earned the honor for their continued support and presence at Texas Exes events. 

Croomes was named the 15th director of the Longhorn Band in 2021, and also serves as the associate director of bands. He previously directed bands at Louisiana State University and Georgetown High School and taught at Westview Middle School, Pflugerville High School, and Bastrop High School.

As is tradition, the award was handed out to the unknowing winner in a surprise and impromptu ceremony. On hand for the moment was Texas Exes CEO Robert W. Jones, BBA '87; president-elect Arleas Upton Kea, BA ’79, JD ’82, Distinguished Alumna; and president Brien Smith, BBA ’79, MPA ’81, Life Members.