

First & Calvary Scholars Program
The First & Calvary Scholars Program empowers exceptional students in the creative disciplines of fine arts, writing, and music to explore the intersection of the Christian faith and the arts. The program offers 10 paid internships each year for participants to explore their craft within the ministry of First & Calvary—a historic church with a mission to build bridges of blessing between the church and people in the arts. This program supports local art students who are at the forefront of Christian creativity by granting them quality time and space to work, one-on-one coaching in ministry, and resources that help nurture the spiritual calling of the creative.

Vocal | MSU
Parker Ohman
My name is Parker Ohman, and I’m excited to begin my second year as a First & Calvary Scholar while pursuing a master’s degree in voice at Missouri State University. Originally from Michigan, I studied voice and theater at Wheaton College and have also helped create Second Glance, an inter-arts ensemble dedicated to telling overlooked stories through a variety of artistic disciplines. I’d love to meet you, so feel free to introduce yourself after a service!

Worship Team | MSU
Madeline Begin
My name is Maddie Begin, and I’m a junior in the BFA Musical Theatre program at Missouri State University and a second-year participant in the Scholars Program. Originally from West Palm Beach, Florida, I’m grateful for God’s guidance in bringing me to Springfield and for the confidence that my identity is found in Him. I’m excited to use my gifts to glorify God, serve others, and grow in fellowship with the First & Calvary community!

Vocal | MSU
Madeline Swope
Madeline Swope, a Freshman at Missouri State University, studying vocal music education. She is passionate about acting and singing. She has performed in choir, theater, and competitions, earning honors such as the 2025 Missouri All-State Honor Choir and back-to-back Gold ratings at the MSHSAA State Solo & Ensemble Competition. Madeline hopes to pursue a career in teaching vocal music, and weaving her faith into her career.

Choral | MSU
Ella Myers
Ella Myers (she/her), from St. Louis, MO, is a third-year music education major at Missouri State University, studying voice and percussion. Passionate about education and performance, she serves as president of MSU’s NAfME-C chapter and sings with the Missouri State Chorale. Ella has performed internationally with collegiate choirs in Germany, the Czech Republic, Australia, and New Zealand.

Choral | MSU
Payton Ballinger
Payton Ballinger, a Kansas City native, is a second-year Master of Music candidate in Voice Performance at Missouri State University, where she serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Voice Performance and Psychology from Pepperdine University. At First & Calvary, Payton serves as Soprano Choral Scholar and Arts Walk Administrative Assistant. She also performs with Ozarks Lyric Opera and works at Mercy Hospital’s Marian Center.

Choral | MSU
Wade Bogart
Wade Bogart is a tenor and Vocal Music Education student at Missouri State University, where he studied with Dr. Todd Payne. He has performed with Ozarks Lyric Opera and MSU Opera Theatre and is a member of the MSU Chorale, performing internationally in South America, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. Wade is also a co-founder of the MSU Undergraduate Chamber Singers and sings with the Queen City Chorale. In 2026–2027, he will serve as an F&C Choral Scholar while completing his student teaching.


