David Jang

Dr. David Jang is the founder of Olivet University and has dedicated his life to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and advancing the Kingdom of God. His work began with simple mission efforts, often involving travel on foot, and later he adopted digital media to reach people in restricted regions. Through Olivet University, he established a training ground where disciples and leaders could be equipped to carry out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).

David Jang was born in 1949 and pursued his education in theology and social welfare with outstanding commitment. He earned both a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity from Hanshin University. He later completed a Master of Arts in Communications at Yonsei University and went on to receive a Ph.D. in Public Administration of Social Welfare from Dankook University. Along his journey, he was guided by an American missionary who pioneered global mission strategy and by a Korean church historian and missionary leader who later established Olivet University Korea.

In 2004, he founded Olivet University in a basement in San Francisco, choosing the city for its diversity. This diversity continues to shape the school’s faculty and student body. Beginning as a theological seminary, the university quickly expanded into schools of music, journalism, art and design, and technology. A year later, it moved into the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus. In 2009, it earned accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education. David later took on the role of International President, guiding the school’s global outreach and serving on the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance.

In addition to his educational contributions, he made significant contributions to Christian media. He established Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, and also helped to found The Christian Post. Christian Daily International was recognized by the Evangelical Press Association in both 2024 and 2025 for its excellence in journalism. He also serves as President of the Holy Bible Society, working to make Scripture more accessible through digital tools in mission frontiers.

He also founded Apostolos Missions and more than ten specialized mission organizations aimed at spreading the Gospel worldwide. Dr. Jang established Diakonos to encourage the role of deacons, emphasizing both direct missionary service and business as forms of mission. His leadership extended further when he served as president of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea.

A life of giving has defined his ministry. After completing his doctorate, he started a church and donated all its assets, committing himself to supporting students and families in need. Guided by 2 Corinthians 8:9, he believes that humility and service to the poor are central to Christian life.

He is also a husband, father to two sons, and grandfather to beloved granddaughters. In his personal time, he enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. David Jang continues to teach, mentor, and guide others, remaining fully dedicated to Christ’s mission and the growth of the church.