06/10/2026
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Dr. Mary Ellen Wylie on June 7, 2026.
Professor of Music at the University of Evansville, Dr. Wylie joined the UE faculty in 1991. Until her retirement in 2020, Dr. Wylie served as Director of the Music Therapy program, taught core courses in the music therapy degree, supervised music therapy practica, and coordinated student internship placements throughout the United States. In addition, she served as UE Music Co-Chair. Dr. Wylie received the UE Outstanding Teacher Award at Commencement in 2017, receiving a record number of nominations from students, alumni and faculty,
Dr. Wylie was recognized as a distinguished leader nationally. She gave numerous presentations at national, regional, and state music therapy conferences and was published in the Journal of Music Therapy and Music Therapy Perspectives. Dr. Wylie served as President Elect, President and Past President of the American Music Therapy Association, (a total of 6 years ). In 2010, she received the Honorary Life Member Award, and in 2019 the prestigious Service Award, citing her distinguished contributions made over the years in the music therapy profession.
Dr. Wylie loved teaching and was devoted to mentoring her students to become the next generation of leaders. She was determined to expand the practice of music therapy to institutions, hospitals and schools as an effective treatment for client support. A champion of both her profession and her students, Dr. Wylie will be remembered fondly as a teacher, mentor, and practitioner.
