Michael Clayton: A Life of Faith, Leadership, and Service at DBU and Beyond

Michael Clayton, a proud alumnus of Dallas Baptist University (then known as Dallas Baptist College), graduated in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, double majoring in Biblical Studies and Mass Media Communication Arts.

Born and raised in Oak Cliff, just a few miles from DBU, Michael's walk in faith began at the age of nine. Through the years, he deepened his commitment to the Lord's will, experiencing firsthand the power of grace, forgiveness, and divine guidance. "I have been reminded often through my self-centered mistakes that without Jesus in control I would never enjoy His perfect will and direction for His unique path for my life." Michael's call to ministry came early, during high school, leading him to preach at youth revivals, camps, and conferences while serving in local churches.

Michael firmly believes that God led him to DBU as part of a greater plan. Even as a commuter student, he was very involved in campus life, participating in Ministerial Alliance, serving as Senior Class President, and assistant to former DBC President Dr. Charles Pitts. Aside from academics, he was a member of the cheerleading squad—an experience that became a memorable part of his college experience.

His academic journey was equally impactful, with classes in biblical studies shaping his theological foundation. He found great inspiration in his mass media communication courses, particularly under the mentorship of Dr. Don Gillis. Other professors, including Charles Jones, Dr. Fred White, Dr. William Bell, Dr. David Fletcher, and Dr. Timothy Trammell, left a lasting mark on his personal and professional growth.

Even decades later, DBU remains an integral part of Michael's life. Whether attending baseball games, graduations, enjoying a hot chocolate with long-time friend Chancellor Dr. Gary Cook, or simply stopping by for lunch on the Hill, he cherishes every moment on campus.

Michael's career has been a remarkable testament to God's sovereignty and sense of humor. For over 50 years, he has served in various ministries, from pastoring churches of all sizes to mentoring students and single adults. His journey led him to preach in hundreds of churches, pastor four of them, serve alongside notable leaders such as Bill Weber, Bailey Smith, and Tom Elliff, and ultimately expand his calling beyond traditional ministry.

Mid-life, Michael's path took a turn as he began also speaking to secular audiences—businesses, non-profits, and corporate groups—teaching biblical principles without necessarily citing the Bible. This opened doors to coaching, consulting, and leadership development in diverse industries.

Later, he served as Vice President of Advancement at Criswell College before attempting "retirement," which soon turned into another season of service. Over the past seven years, Michael has worked as a consultant with the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, assisting churches with fundraising and Cooperative Program giving. He also dedicated time to helping a non-profit organization secure funding for a major capital campaign and served as an interim pastor. Even now, he remains active in ministry, ever ready for the next chapter God has in store, and as he often reminds himself, "It's not over until it's over, and Jesus hasn't called me home yet!"

Michael credits DBU for laying a strong foundation in theology, communication, and leadership. The relationships he built with professors, mentors, and peers significantly shaped his calling and career. His time at DBU instilled in him the importance of servant leadership, a principle that has guided his professional and personal life ever since.

Of all his accomplishments, speaking to thousands, raising millions for non-profits, co-authoring an Amazon best-selling book, participating in nearly a thousand radio/TV interviews, meeting global leaders and preachers, and earning numerous accolades — Michael considers his family to be his greatest achievement.

Shortly after graduating, he married Dee Olive, whom he had known since their youth church choir days. Married for almost 51 years, they have built a life centered on faith, raising three children who are all dedicated to servant leadership. His sons, Chris and Kendal, and daughter, Kim, have pursued their own paths of ministry and professional excellence. Chris is a two-time graduate of DBU ('00, '19) and is married to alumnus, Kara Roberts ('00). Kim, a soon-to-be two-time graduate of DBU ('03, '25), is married to Bobby Soto ('03, '05), and both serve on staff at DBU. Michael's youngest son, Kendal, graduated from Lamar University and met his wife, Rebekah, while working on their master's degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Michael and Dee's legacy now extends to nine grandchildren, bringing their family immeasurable joy.

Michael has always believed that education is a lifelong journey. Following DBU, he pursued a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and received various certifications in nonprofit management, public speaking, and leadership training, like being acknowledged as a Speaking Professional by the National Speakers Association. Michael explains that every one of these were meant to enhance his "toolbox to better take biblical truth with or without chapter and verse to people inside and outside of the local church." He claims, "Every conversation, article and book I read, the various visual media I watch, what I listen to, and observing the skills exercised by others is continual education...even for an old guy."

Long before DBU formally adopted its mission statement of developing Christ-centered servant leaders, Michael saw this principle in action during his time as a student. Today, he strives to live out these values of biblical truth and spiritual formation by staying focused on what matters most: faith, humility, and service to others.

If Michael could offer advice to his younger self at graduation, he would emphasize the importance of daily Scripture reading and application, fervent prayer, and keeping Jesus at the center of everything. Looking back, he is incredibly grateful for God's hand in his journey and the role DBU played in equipping him for a life of impact and influence.

Michael's story is a testament to God's faithfulness, the transformative power of education, and the lasting influence of DBU. "I hesitate to think where I would be today, what my life would have been like, and the career path I would have taken without Jesus and His sovereign grace, forgiveness, and guidance. It was by His protective hand that He blessed me with my life partner, our children and grandchildren, family, friends, and mentors, and a solid foundation called Dallas Baptist University."