The Music Department Remembers Professor Matie Scully

Professor Matie Scully served our students at San Bernardino Valley College for 29 years. As Chair of the Music, Theater & Dance department, she was responsible for hiring the majority of our performing arts faculty, spearheading an Applied Music program, and bringing opera to San Bernardino. She gave integral input to the architects when designing the “new” North Hall, and as a result, the Recital Hall (lovingly known as the “MAC”) serves our campus as a versatile classroom and community gathering space. Her efforts to produce and perform an annual Civil Rights concert highlighted her spirit of social justice in connecting the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans with the paths of advocacy for communities of the disabled and LGBTQ+. 

Professor Scully’s bravery and strength as a transgendered professional singer broke many barriers for the better in our community. She owned her truth and supported students, faculty, and staff across the campus through their journeys through adversity and achievement. Matie lived for her students, and her musical impact is felt across several generations. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. 

A scholarship has been established in Matie Scully's honor, to continue supporting SBVC Music students in perpetuity. Please consider making a contribution to this special scholarhip by clicking the donate link below.

Donate to the Matie Scully Scholarship

images of Matie Scully singing and conducting choir on stage