SWU Honors Pastor Michael “Mike” McClung With the Prestigious Virgil A. Mitchell Award
May 26, 2026 | Alumni | Awards and recognitions
CENTRAL, SC— Southern Wesleyan University honored alumnus Pastor Michael “Mike” McClung with the prestigious Virgil A. Mitchell Award, honoring excellence in pastoral ministry and a life of Christ-centered leadership and service.
The award was presented by Dr. William Barker, president of Southern Wesleyan University, and was instituted to celebrate pastors who exemplify faithful preaching, servant leadership, and lasting impact on both church and community. Established by Dr. Virgil A. Mitchell and his wife, Mary, the award reflects Mitchell’s legacy as a pastor, denominational leader, and advocate for ministerial education.
“The Virgil Mitchell Award is significant because Virgil Mitchell was such a great pastor of influence and leadership,” said Dr. Barker. “He helped prepare pastors to go out and be servants of the Kingdom. I am so grateful for Mike’s leadership in heading a church that really wants to come alongside our students and provide a church home.”
A 1994 graduate of Southern Wesleyan University, McClung has served as lead pastor of Trinity Wesleyan Church since 2014. With more than 30 years of ministry experience, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to discipleship, community engagement, and spiritual leadership. His ministry includes launching recovery programs, teaching as an adjunct professor, coaching youth sports, and serving as a police chaplain for both the City of Clemson and the Town of Central.
Under his leadership, Trinity Wesleyan Church has built a strong connection with the university, regularly supporting students through outreach, discipleship, and campus involvement.
In accepting the award, McClung reflected on his calling to the ministry with humility. “I do feel undeserving,” he said. “But I have seen God move in mighty ways… and I know that it’s only because of God.”
Beyond his pastoral role, McClung is an educator and community leader who has invested in the next generation, both in the classroom and through local mentorship and coaching.
McClung and his wife, Linda—also an ordained minister—have been married since 1995 and share a commitment to ministry that extends to their three children.
The Virgil A. Mitchell Award continues to highlight pastors who model Christ-centered leadership, humility, and service—values that remain central to Southern Wesleyan University’s mission of preparing graduates to serve Christ and make a difference in the world.
About Southern Wesleyan University
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to www.swu.edu.
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