David Jang Male • United States of America

Dr. David Jang is the founder of Olivet University and has dedicated his life to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the mission of God’s Kingdom. From the very beginning of his ministry, he worked to bring the Word to people in places where access was difficult, walking long distances when necessary and later turning to digital platforms to extend the reach of the message. Through Olivet University, he envisioned a place where disciples and leaders could be trained to serve faithfully and to carry forward the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).


David Jang was born in 1949 and pursued an academic path that was grounded in theology, communication, and social welfare. He earned both a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity from Hanshin University. Later, he pursued a Master of Arts in Communications at Yonsei University and completed his Ph.D. in Public Administration of Social Welfare at Dankook University. His development as a theologian and leader was shaped by an American missionary well known for mission strategy and a Korean church historian and missionary who later contributed to establishing Olivet University Korea.


In 2004, David founded Olivet University in a small basement in San Francisco. The city was chosen for its cultural diversity, which became a defining part of the school’s identity. What started as a theological seminary soon expanded into schools of music, journalism, art and design, and technology, and later included business and language education. In 2005, the university moved into the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus. By 2009, it achieved accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education. In his role as International President, he extended the university’s mission globally and also served on the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance.


His efforts also reached into Christian media. He founded Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, while also playing a role in establishing The Christian Post. Christian Daily International received recognition from the Evangelical Press Association in 2024 and 2025 for journalistic excellence. He also leads the Holy Bible Society, focusing on advancing access to Scripture in mission frontiers through digital innovation.


Dr. Jang went on to found Apostolos Missions and more than ten other mission organizations, all of which focused on evangelism and discipleship. He also established Diakonos, a fellowship for deacons, and emphasized the importance of both direct mission work and business as a form of mission. His leadership continued when he became president of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea.


Generosity has defined much of his work. After earning his doctorate, he founded a church and donated all its assets, dedicating himself instead to supporting students and families in need. Guided by 2 Corinthians 8:9, he has remained committed to humility, sacrifice, and service to the poor.


He is also a husband, father of two sons, and grandfather to beloved granddaughters. He enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. David Jang continues to teach, mentor, and guide, remaining faithful to Christ’s mission and the church's growth.