Established in memory of Mary Lily Tyson—better known as “Jo”—an accomplished performer with an innate talent for acting, singing and music, the M.L. (Jo) Tyson Scholarship in Undergraduate Music Studies supports young musicians in pursuing their aspirations.

From a young age, Jo discovered her passion for entertaining others on stage and followed in her mother’s footsteps by playing the piano and organ during weekly Anglican church services, while also using her powerful voice to sing hymns. After completing her musical studies and becoming a military wife, Jo found herself in high demand wherever she went—with frequent requests to perform in church choirs, teach piano lessons and play the organ, no matter where home was at the time.

Among Jo’s most memorable achievements was her role in Eugene O’Neill’s play Ah, Wilderness!, in which she received immense praise from New York theatre critics. Following her husband’s retirement, the family moved to Ottawa, where Jo quickly appeared on local stages through the RA Theatrical Society, the University of Ottawa Drama Department and St. Thomas the Apostle Anglican Church, to name a few.

Most notably, Jo took great pride in creating the ‘Tyson Trio’ entertainment group, which provided variety shows for seniors at local churches across the Ottawa community. This was just the beginning of her journey bringing entertainment to seniors, as her efforts expanded from becoming a member of the Singing Company to co-founding the Vista Singers—a project incredibly dear to her heart and among her proudest achievements.

From playing to directing the monthly hymn sing at the Glebe Centre, Jo’s participation in the performing arts touched countless individuals throughout her 102 years and she truly lived by the mantra that ‘age is just a number’. Her legacy will continue through the M.L. (Jo) Tyson Scholarship in Undergraduate Music Studies, encouraging students to follow their musical passions just as Jo devoted her life to hers.

Value $2,500. Awarded annually to outstanding undergraduate students who are entering or continuing in the Bachelor of Music Program. Established in 2025 by Anna Tyson BA/76 in memory of Mary Lily Tyson.