Joseph T. Spaniola (D.M.A., Music), Pensacola, Florida, received an honorable mention for his band composition, UPLIFTED: Answering the Call, for the 2023 American Prize in composition in the Pops/Light Music division. The American Prize celebrates American excellence in the arts. The music was commissioned by the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force and to honor the Air Mobility Command. While at UNT, he was involved in the Composers Forum.