Eaglecrest’s Jason Mabrey Named Section 6 Heart of the Arts Award Winner

INDIANAPOLIS – The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has selected named Jason Mabrey, the Band Director at Eaglecrest High School, as the Section 6 recipient of the 2025 High School Heart of the Arts Award.

The NFHS “National High School Heart of the Arts Award” is a rare and distinguished recognition given to only eight individuals across the entire country each year. This award is reserved for those who exemplify the very best of what education-based activities stand for—people who demonstrate incredible heart, passion, and commitment to the arts. Mabrey is someone who has gone far beyond the expectations of his role, serving others with a remarkable heart—especially in the realm of music.

“Jason Maybrey is a special individual who exemplifies the true “Heart of the Arts” spirit,” said CHSAA Associate Commissioner Bethany Brookens, who presented the award to Mabrey. “He works tirelessly to provide opportunities for his band, and this was most recently showcased at our basketball state championships when he brought over 100 students to the Denver Coliseum to support their team.  His passion, dedication, and selflessness makes him a remarkable leader and our state and section are proud to recognize him!”

As the band director at Eaglecrest High School in Centennial, Mabrey has demonstrated unwavering dedication to his students and the arts, even in the face of personal adversity. After enduring a horrific ski accident that left him hospitalized and severely injured, Mabrey faced a future filled with uncertainty. The challenges were overwhelming, and many doubted if he would ever walk again. But with his unshakable positive attitude and relentless determination, Mabrey not only defied the odds but became a powerful source of inspiration to everyone around him.

During his recovery, Mabrey’s dedication to his students never faltered. Despite the immense physical challenges, he continued to lead his marching band with unwavering commitment. Navigating the school with a wheelchair, a walker, and eventually his now-iconic cane, Mabrey’s perseverance became a symbol of strength for his students and colleagues. His “never quit” mindset and dedication to his role as a band director have inspired his students to embrace resilience, hard work, and passion, even in the face of adversity.

Under his leadership, the Eaglecrest band program has flourished, earning multiple state and national accolades. Mabrey has pioneered efforts to integrate adaptive techniques into music education, ensuring all students have access to quality music instruction regardless of physical limitations.

Mabrey’s journey is a testament to his “never quit” attitude and his unwavering commitment to his role as a band director. His perseverance became a powerful symbol of strength and hope for his students and colleagues. His dedication to the arts and his ability to overcome personal hardship while maintaining excellence in his field make him a remarkable role model. His story has touched the hearts of all who know him, inspiring not only his students but also the entire community.

The National High School Heart of the Arts Award was conceptualized by the NFHS in 2014 to honor individuals who exemplify the ideals of the positive heart of the arts and represent the core mission of education-based activities.