Darlington High Marching Falcon Band Celebrates Trailblazing Alumna Sahara Gibbs

Darlington High Marching Falcon Band Celebrates Trailblazing Alumna Sahara Gibbs

Darlington, SC — The Darlington High School Marching Falcon Band proudly shines a spotlight on one of its trailblazing alumni, Sahara Gibbs, a 2017 graduate whose leadership, talent, and heart have left an indelible mark on both the band and the community.

Sahara was a clarinetist and section leader in the Marching Falcon Band under the direction of Dr. Brendan L. Johnson, becoming one of the earliest members to help set the foundation for the band’s modern era of excellence. She was instrumental—both literally and figuratively—in helping lead the band to its first-ever superior ratings in concert and marching band performance. Sahara’s involvement in marching band and concert band helped inspire a culture of pride and musical achievement still felt today.

In the fall of 2017, Sahara took her talents to South Carolina State University, where she earned both band and academic scholarships. While there, she became a proud member of the Marching 101 and the prestigious Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women. She graduated from SCSU in 2023 with a degree in Family and Consumer Science: Child Development and is now pursuing her master’s degree in Family and Human Development.

Sahara plans to continue following her passion for helping children—whether in the classroom as an educator or in a more specialized role as a school therapist.

“Sahara Gibbs is the student who made me believe this band program could become something great,” said Dr. Brendan L. Johnson. “She was my very first student and a true leader from day one. Her mother, Mrs. Sara Gibbs, was also instrumental, serving as my second Booster Club president. Their family helped build the heart of what we have today. Sahara’s passion for children and education makes her not just a role model but a legacy.”

The Darlington High School Marching Falcon Band salutes Sahara Gibbs for her continued excellence, leadership, and devotion to service. Her legacy lives on in every note played and every student inspired.