Alumni Profile: Sharon Boyle '93

Coordinator, Undergraduate Music Therapy Program; Associate Professor of Music Therapy
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Major at Linfield: Music (vocal performance emphasis)

What are you doing now?
I am an Associate Professor of Music Therapy and the Coordinator of the Undergraduate Music Therapy Program at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, where I teach in both the undergraduate and graduate programs, supervise students in their practicum sites throughout the community, and serve the college in many capacities. My areas of research and presentation center around vocal health in music therapy; self-care in music therapy; clinical training and education; and vocal improvisation. I work to advocate for music therapy and further develop our impact through marketing and other PR projects such as authoring a blog through our program.

I continue to work in a variety of clinical settings, facilitating and co-facilitating sessions with students in memory care units, special education classrooms, group homes for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, medical, and mental health settings.

Tell us about yourself.
I am married, have a seven year-old daughter and have been teaching at SMWC since 2002. Prior to that, I was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Therapy at Ohio University. I worked full-time as a music therapist from 1996-2001 in a county facility in Lancaster, Wis. 

I have lived in Terre Haute, Ind. since 2002. My husband is also on the music faculty as Associate Professor of Voice and Director of Choirs. We love to travel and often sing together!

How did Linfield help prepare you for your career?
My experiences at Linfield were invaluable. I struggled financially the entire time I was at Linfield, so worked even harder to take on leadership roles and to obtain scholarships and grants. I was truly transformed during my time at Linfield. I learned that I could coordinate large functions, I could lead students in clubs and organizations, and I learned that I was an initiator...not just a "doer." I found confidence and value in myself during my time at Linfield.

Linfield was crucial in developing my self-confidence and overall self-awareness. I am eternally grateful for all the performing experiences, travel experiences, and interactions with faculty that I had throughout my time at Linfield. I learned that I could be a leader and many of the skills I acquired (organizational, creative thinking, interpersonal skills, motivation and dependability!) and developed at Linfield are what serve me well today. I also reflect on my former professors often, now that I also teach at a small, private, liberal arts college! Some of my closest friends today are those I made at Linfield.