Jo Scurlock-Dillard received a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Arts in 1975 from Stephen F. Austin State University. She taught choral music and theatre in Texas and California for 35 years before retiring from the classroom.

Jo is a Past President of the Texas Music Educators Association, and she also served two years as the Vice President in charge of the Vocal Division. She has served on many music advisory committees, such as: UIL Sightreading Committee, UIL Prescribed Music List Committee, Chair of the SWACDA Repertoire and Standards Committee for Women's Choirs, Chair of the TCDA Ways and Means Committee, and the UIL Music Advisory. 

In 2000, Jo was named as the recipient of the Southwestern Bell UIL Sponsor of the Year for her work with students in choir. She was also named SFASU's Music Alumnus of the Year.

Choirs under Jo's direction have been chosen to perform for the Texas Music Educator's Association, Southwestern Division of the American Choral Association, and the National American Choral Director's Association conferences. Her choirs have also been invited to sing in Paris, Budapest, Munich, Vienna, Salzburg, Florence, Rome, Amsterdam, and Bruges.

Jo continues to be active as a choral conductor, advocate, clinician, consultant, Texas Tech University Student Teacher Supervisor, and teacher mentor/consultant for the Harlandale School District in San Antonio.