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• Kyla Hampson selected as graduation marshal

Kyla Hampson selected as student marshal for Auburn University's fall 2025 commencement

Kyla Hampson, a graduating senior from Milton, Georgia, has been named the fall 2025 graduation marshal for the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University.

Hampson will graduate with degrees in professional flight and tuba performance. Her expansive skills have led to involvement in the Auburn Aviation Student Advisory Board, the Ninety-Nines, Women in Aviation and the Eta Mu Sigma National Honor Society.

“The School of Aviation truly values training their students to be the most successful pilots they can be,” Hampson said. “I love how you immediately jump into flight training from the start of your freshman year. I learned the importance of preparation and always keep knowledge fresh in case it is needed.”

Hampson served as tuba section leader for the Auburn University Marching Band (AUMB) in 2022 and has served as drum leader for the past three seasons.

“Auburn has changed my life in many ways. Being a part of the AUMB and a student at the School of Aviation has totally shaped my perspective,” Hampson said. “The amazing traditions that Auburn has and how much the university values student life really helped set the stage for my success throughout my college career.”

After graduating, Hampson hopes to obtain a flight instructor position to build her hours and become a commercial pilot. Her ultimate goal is to fly wide-body aircraft internationally while spreading the joy of instrumental music to the traveling public.

“Although I primarily play the tuba, most airlines will not allow me to carry a tuba around while on the job as a pilot, so I sought a direct study with Auburn’s trumpet professor, Emery Harvison,” Hampson said. “I hope to develop skills on the trumpet that will open the opportunity to play gigs while traveling around the world, either on off days or between flights.”

Hampson won the Auburn University Concerto Competition in 2022 and was recently named a semifinalist in the prestigious Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Festival Competition.

“The journey so far has been challenging, and I have learned a great deal,” Hampson said. “I know the road ahead won’t be any easier, but I am confident that I will learn more, make new connections, and have new experiences that will positively impact who I am as a pilot and a person.”

As graduation marshal, Hampson will lead the College of Liberal Arts fall 2025 graduating class into the commencement ceremony. One student from each college is selected to serve as marshal for their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements.

“Kyla’s dedication, discipline and precision both in the marching band and in the skies embodies the very best of our students,” said Dean Jason Hicks. “We are proud to see Kyla lead her graduating class and can't wait to watch her soar in her aviation career.”

The university will host the College of Liberal Arts commencement ceremony at 6 p.m. CT on Saturday, Dec. 13. The commencement address will be delivered by former Auburn University Trustee Sarah Barber Newton ’74. Additional information, including updates regarding inclement weather, is available on the commencement website and information will be posted on the Facebook and Instagram accounts.

All ceremonies will be livestreamed, with recordings available on the commencement website following the weekend festivities, and graduates and their families are encouraged to check the website regularly for updated information.

Tags: Students Aviation Music