Trevecca Nazarene University has named Ethan King, Sydney Meng and Ensleigh Olivas as the 2026 recipients of the prestigious McClurkan Scholarship. Named after the founder of Trevecca, J.O. McClurkan, the McClurkan Scholarship is the University’s most competitive full-tuition scholarship.
To qualify for the scholarship, students must demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence and servant leadership. Applicants can apply by making a minimum score of 29 on the ACT or 1330+ on the SAT, and having a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Toward the end of the application process, the top candidates are invited to campus for interviews and campus visits.
Congratulations to this year’s McClurkan Scholarship recipients.
“I discovered my passion for music at age nine at a National Jr. Beta Convention in Savannah, Georgia, where I won first place in performing arts for the first time. It changed my life, and ever since then, I've played in church and in numerous bands and written countless songs. I believe music is a gift from God, and if channeled correctly, it can be used to help send a message and bring joy into the lives of people.” – Ethan King (Music – General and Commercial, Benton, Missouri)
“I have a heart to serve and enjoy using the gifts the Lord has given me in my church and community. I love to study and learn and I am passionate about growing and refining my understanding of God's Word as a scholar. My dream is to become a speaker and writer, and I was recently given the opportunity to travel and intern with a Christian author and vocational minister that I highly respect. This has impacted how I view my life and calling, and given me so much excitement for the future.” – Sydney Meng (Religion in Pastoral Ministry, Franklin, Tennessee)
“I am absolutely ecstatic to be receiving this award. It is so surreal that I am going to Trevecca. In high school, I have been a member and leader in approximately 14 clubs and organizations. I hope to continue my academic career in marketing with a minor in writing. Joining Trevecca as a student and as a servant of God is such an honor and I hope to make a difference in this community.” – Ensleigh Olivas (Business Administration in Marketing, Cleveland, Tennessee)