The South Pasadena High School Alumni Association awarded its highest honor for a faculty or staff member to retiring music director Howard Crawford at the final assembly of the year.
Crawford, who led the school’s music department for 34 years, received the Janet Anderson “Tiger Spirit” award. He oversaw the marching band, orchestra, jazz band, drumline and color guard, delivering an outstanding musical experience for thousands of students.
His tenure was marked by students’ numerous weekend performances, community outreach such as holiday caroling in South Pasadena, and late-night performances at games and concerts. Crawford established a partnership with parents through the Band Boosters, creating a family atmosphere. He brought in guest performers, including musicians from New Orleans’ Preservation Hall for jam sessions with students.
Former Principal Janet Anderson, Class of 1974, presented the award bearing her name. She called Crawford “an extremely unselfish, student-centered individual who creates a family atmosphere, who helps students find their power as leaders and always advocates for students. This is a leader in word and deed who goes above and beyond the job description or the hours on the clock to contribute to the school and students.”
In addition to being added to the “Tiger Spirit” plaque hanging in the faculty room, Crawford received a modest stipend thanking him for outstanding service.
First published in the June 28 print issue of the South Pasadena Review.
