Making the leap

    Kim McLean
Class of 2003

From broken dreams... To new opportunities as a musician

“Growing up in North Carolina, I wanted to go to college to continue my studies in music, classical piano, and improvisation. My first attempt at college ended in my first semester when I had to enter an extensive treatment program for the eating disorder that was ravaging my body; that program saved my life but the disease had already stolen my dream of getting a college education.

“Meanwhile, God blessed me with a beautiful family—a husband and two little blue-eyed blond girls. I used my musical gift to write songs and knew that God was calling me to be songwriter. My sweet family inspired many songs, and so did the faith that was restored to me as I healed from my disease. Eventually, we moved to Nashville so that I could pursue a career as a professional songwriter. With 100 songs, a call on my life, and the support of friends and loved ones, success happened quickly. I did my best, but even with my accomplishments, I knew in my heart that I was not embracing all that God had for me to do and that I was not walking fully in His blessings.

“After much prayer and research, I was led to Trevecca. Picking up the music studies I had left behind so long ago, I cried tears of joy and gratitude when I learned something new. My professors treated me with respect and kindness while they challenged me on a daily basis, and I made many new friends among my student peers.

“I grew spiritually through the testimony, witness, and strong biblical teaching that is the foundation of every aspect of Trevecca. My music career was exciting and productive through those four years of study, and in fact, some of the brightest moments of my career happened while I was an undergrad at Trevecca. Following the path God had for me and being completely obedient to His call brought peace to my soul, confidence that I didn’t have before, and new opportunities as a professional writer.

“With a call to ministry that I didn’t recognize before coming to Trevecca, I entered graduate school at Trevecca and will earn a master’s in biblical theology in May 2008. I am glad for the topsy-turvy path that led me to this university. All my life people have called me shy or wondered why I was so quiet. Honestly, I was afraid and uncertain and disappointed about the broken dream that had been so important to me so long ago. Trevecca has given me something to talk about and the courage and skill to say it. Because of Trevecca, my life has gone from good to great.”

Kim, a story-singer-composer, is a Dove Award winner who is known for her own hybrid music which she calls “groove grass.” Her songs have been recorded by Tim McGraw, Trisha Yearwood, Lee Ann Womack, the Judds, and others. Her songs have also been used on NBC’s West Wing, CBS’s JAG, and ABC’s Hope and Faith.