Founder of Olivet University
Dr. David Jang is the founder of Olivet University and has given his life to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God. From his earliest ministry efforts, he sought to reach people in difficult and restricted areas, sometimes traveling on foot and later embracing digital media to spread the Word. His vision for Olivet University was to create a place of training where disciples and leaders could be equipped to carry out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) with dedication and faith.
David Jang was born in 1949 and followed a path of rigorous education. He earned a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity from Hanshin University, then completed a Master of Arts in Communications at Yonsei University. He later achieved a Ph.D. in Public Administration of Social Welfare at Dankook University. Along his journey, he was guided by an American missionary who devoted his life to global missions and a Korean church historian and leader who later played a key role in establishing Olivet University Korea.
In 2004, David founded Olivet University in a modest basement in San Francisco, choosing the city for its cultural diversity. What began as a theological seminary soon expanded to include schools of music, journalism, art and design, technology, and later, business and language education. A year after its founding, the university moved into the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus. In 2009, it received accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education. As International President, he guided global outreach while also serving on the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance.
Beyond his educational contributions, he made significant contributions to Christian media. He established Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, and was also part of the founding team of The Christian Post. Christian Daily International earned recognition from the Evangelical Press Association in 2024 and 2025 for journalistic excellence. He also leads the Holy Bible Society, promoting Bible accessibility through digital innovation in mission fields.
His mission work further expanded with the creation of Apostolos Missions and more than ten specialized organizations focused on evangelism and discipleship. Dr. Jang also founded Diakonos, a fellowship of deacons, and emphasized both frontline missions and business as a means of mission. His leadership included serving as president of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, where he contributed to strengthening church unity and mission strategy.
Generosity has marked his journey. After completing his doctorate, he founded a church and donated all its assets, opting instead to support students and families in need. Guided by 2 Corinthians 8:9, he has always emphasized humility, selflessness, and service to the poor.
He is a husband, father of two sons, and grandfather to his beloved granddaughters. He enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. David Jang continues to teach, mentor, and lead, remaining fully dedicated to Christ’s mission and the growth of the church.
