Rene Godina, Director of “Mariachi Cardenales” at Skagit Valley College, has been selected to participate in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City this year.

Godina will be marching with the “Band Directors Marching Band,” which is a part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors project. The group includes 408 band directors who also marched in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif. in 2022.

“It was a remarkable honor to join over 300 band directors at the Rose Parade two years ago,” said Godina. “After its conclusion, our group was invited to participate in the Macy’s Parade. I am once again honored to march alongside over 400 members in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this year.”

Committed to sharing the beauty of mariachi music and the culture of Mexico, Godina’s passion for music education spans two decades.

“My father played mariachi for many years, and it is part of my culture,” said Godina. “Teaching mariachi allows me to continue the legacy and share it with both children and adults interested in learning about mariachi and Mexican traditions.”

Godina, who currently serves as a music specialist at Centennial Elementary in addition to his role at SVC, brings a wealth of experience to the college.

“I taught mariachi, band, and orchestra in California for 10 years before coming to Skagit Valley College,” shared Godina. “I love all music and hope to bring the joy of music to children.”

The 97th annual Macy’s Parade will air on NBC on Thursday, Nov. 23, at 5:30 a.m. Pacific Standard Time. For those who prefer to sleep in on Thanksgiving Day, an encore presentation will be aired on NBC and Peacock at 11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.

About the Saluting America’s Band Directors Project

The objective of the Saluting America’s Band Directors (SABD) was formulated as a means to acknowledge and honor the exceptional dedication and achievements of band directors everywhere, including public and private schools at all educational levels, colleges and universities, as well as the military and community bands. For information about Mariachi Cardenales at SVC, visit skagit.edu/mariachi.