Dixie Lou O’Connor Morris was one of Kansas City Music Foundation’s original founders, which makes her very special to us. To say she was a supporter of music and the arts would be a huge understatement! Dixie Lou’s entire adult life was dedicated to the advancement of the arts and music. Throughout her life, she was a mentor to many, both musically and otherwise.

Dixie Lou received her Bachelor’s of Music Education from the University of MissouriKansas City (UMKC) Conservatory, her Master’s of Music Education from Northwestern University, and completed graduate work from Colorado College, Southern Methodist University-Dallas, UMKC Conservatory, and Kansas State University.

She was a private piano instructor, accompanist, and church organist. She was an active member in the Musical Art Club, Kansas City Musical Club, and Women’s Committee of the Conservatory.

Dixie Lou was a member of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity (SAI) for just short of 80 years, having joined in 1942. Throughout her membership, she served in capacities of local, regional, and national leadership, winning every award SAI offers.

The fact that a UMKC music student won her scholarship this year would have delighted Dixie Lou very much. The Kansas City Alumnae Chapter of SAI and the Kansas City Music Foundation honor Dixie Lou by presenting this scholarship in her name.