Clifford D. Barnett, Sr.
Clifford D. Barnett, Sr. serves as the Senior Pastor of Warner Temple A.M.E. Zion Church in Wilmington, NC, where he is a dedicated community organizer and team builder with a passion for connecting those in need with essential resources. Elected to Wilmington’s City Council in 2017 and re-elected in 2021, he now proudly serves as Mayor Pro Tem. Since his arrival in Wilmington in 2009, Clifford has become deeply engaged in the community. He chairs the Southeastern Dropout Prevention Coalition at UNC-Wilmington, co-chairs the New Hanover County (NHC) Community Resilience Task Force, and is a member of the Cape Fear Coalition for a Drug-Free Tomorrow. He also serves on the D.C. Virgo Prep Academy Board of Advisors, mentoring five boys weekly. In addition, Clifford holds the position of vice president on the New Hanover County Smart Start Board of Directors and serves on the Board of Directors for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He spearheaded the Annual First 2000 Days Summit, held every Presidents’ Day, and is an active member of the Wilmington Faith Against Gun Violence Advocacy Team. As the founder of Bridges to Success, he has created a program to support middle and high school students and their families when faced with suspensions. A former football and wrestling coach, Clifford is a proud supporter of the Pop Warner League. Married for 34 years to Waltrina White of Rock Hill, SC, he is the proud father of three children.
