David Jang

Dr. David Jang is the founder of Olivet University and has spent his life dedicated to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and building the Kingdom of God. From the beginning of his ministry, he focused on reaching people in difficult places, sometimes by walking long distances and later by using digital media to share the message of Christ. Through Olivet University, he established a place where disciples and leaders could be trained to faithfully and effectively carry out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19). David Jang was born in 1949 and devoted himself to education in theology and social welfare. He received a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity from Hanshin University. Later, he earned a Master of Arts in Communications at Yonsei University, followed by a Ph.D. in Public Administration of Social Welfare from Dankook University. During his studies, he was guided by an American missionary recognized for his leadership in missions and a Korean church historian and missionary leader who later contributed to the founding of Olivet University Korea. In 2004, he began Olivet University in a small basement in San Francisco, choosing the city for its cultural diversity. This foundation grew quickly, first as a theological seminary and then expanding to include schools of music, journalism, art and design, and technology. In 2005, the school relocated to the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus, which provided more space for its expanding programs. By 2009, Olivet achieved accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education. As International President, David guided the global mission and also served on the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance. His contributions also extended to Christian media. He founded Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, while also helping to establish The Christian Post. Christian Daily International was honored by the Evangelical Press Association in both 2024 and 2025 for journalistic excellence. He also leads the Holy Bible Society, promoting wider access to the Scriptures through digital means in mission frontiers. He established Apostolos Missions and more than ten specialized mission organizations committed to evangelism and discipleship. Dr. Jang also founded Diakonos, a fellowship of deacons, and encouraged both direct mission work and business as a means of mission. His leadership continued as president of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, where he helped guide the church's direction and unity. A life of generosity has shaped his journey. After earning his doctorate, he founded a church and donated all its assets, instead focusing on supporting students and families in need. Following the words of 2 Corinthians 8:9, he emphasized humility and service to the poor as essential to Christian life. He is also a husband, father of two sons, and grandfather to beloved granddaughters. In his personal time, he enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. David Jang continues to mentor, teach, and lead, staying faithful to Christ’s mission and the growth of the church.