The IN UNISON Chorus Delores Greathouse Scholarship
This scholarship was established by the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus in memory of Delores Greathouse, former IN UNISON Chorus Manager and music educator in the St. Louis Public Schools. It is funded by the chorus and through voluntary donations collected during the chorus’s annual community concert held each spring. This scholarship is awarded each year to African American students, regardless of their major, who participate in a music ensemble. Contact the IN UNISON Programs Manager for information on how to apply.
The application for the 2026/27 IN UNISON Chorus Delores Greathouse Scholarship will be available Spring 2026.
Meet the 25/26 Awardees
Omolara Ogunmola
Voice and Cello Performer | Music and Civil Engineering Student University of Missouri – Columbia
Omolara Ogunmola is a dedicated musician and student, having graduated from Pattonville High School in 2025. During her high school years, she made significant contributions to both the orchestra, where she played the cello under the direction of Paul Rueschhoff, and the choir, directed by Melynda Lamb and Aaron Zart. She was a consistent member of the Saint Louis Suburban Honor Choir and Honor Orchestra, earning selections for the prestigious Missouri All-State Choir in 2024 and 2025. Omolara also participated in the Missouri Sight Singing Bee for three years and received numerous Exemplary ratings at the Missouri Solo & Ensemble Festival.
Her musical training continued through the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis’ Artists-in-Training Program, where she studied voice with Dr. Karen Kanakis from 2022 to 2025. Omolara enjoyed the opportunity to perform in Professor Kurt Baldwin’s Cello Choir at the University of Missouri – Saint Louis and contributed to the Pattonville High School Pit Orchestras for productions like Shrek and Crazy for You.
A standout performance in Omolara’s high school career included her portrayal of Sarah in the Gateway Center for Performing Arts’ production of Ragtime in 2024, and she showcased her leadership skills by conducting her high school orchestra with an original arrangement in the fall of 2024.
Currently, Omolara is pursuing a double major in Music and Civil Engineering at the University of Missouri – Columbia. She studies voice with Professor Christina Ray and will perform as Meg in a scene from Falstaff in November, followed by her role as the Sandman in Hansel and Gretel this spring. Beyond her studies and performances, Omolara enjoys playing guitar, composing music, drawing, sewing, baking, swimming, and biking. She hopes to pursue a full-time career in opera after graduating from college.
Marques Rutlin
Sophomore, Music Education Major Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE)
Marques is currently a sophomore at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he is pursuing a degree in Music Education with a focus on woodwind instruments, particularly the clarinet. His dedication to music is evident through his active participation in SIUE’s Wind Symphony, Clarinet Studio, and the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA). Marques is also a proud CODES Scholar (Community-Oriented Digital Engagement Scholar), highlighting his commitment to blending music and community engagement.
From a young age, Marques’s passion for music has been a driving force in his life. He discovered his love for performance early on and has continually sought opportunities to cultivate his skills. While in high school, he showcased his versatility as a musician, participating in various ensembles, including Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band, Pit Orchestra, and Pep Band.
Following his academic journey, Marques aspires to inspire the next generation of musicians by teaching Middle School band in St. Louis. His goal is to share his enthusiasm for music and foster a love for the arts in his future students.