David Jang

David Jang

Founder of Olivet University

Dr. David Jang is the Founder of Olivet University. As a theologian, educator, missionary, and Christian leader, he has devoted his life to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the growth of God’s Kingdom. His journey has included walking on foot through difficult areas and using digital media to share the Gospel in places with limited access. He saw Olivet University as a “seedbed,” a place for training disciples and leaders who would dedicate themselves to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).

Early Life and Education

David Jang was born in 1949 and pursued education with dedication. He received a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity from Hanshin University, known as Korea’s leading Presbyterian seminary. He then earned a Master of Arts in Communications from Yonsei University, a Christian research university in Seoul. His studies continued at Dankook University, where he completed a Ph.D. in Public Administration with a focus on Social Welfare.

During his education, he was influenced by mentors who guided his growth. One was an American missionary known for work in world mission strategy. Another was a Korean teacher of church history and missions who later established Olivet University Korea. Their teaching and direction helped shape his approach to leadership and mission.

Founding Olivet University, San Francisco

In 2004, he founded Olivet University in a small basement in downtown San Francisco. David selected this location due to its cultural and ethnic diversity, which is reflected in the university’s faculty and student body.

From its inception, he directed the school toward meeting the needs of the Christian mission worldwide. Although it began as a theological seminary, it expanded to include schools of Music, Journalism, art and design, and Technology. During this stage, he invited a mission strategist to join the faculty, who then introduced local scholars who continue to serve at Olivet today.

In 2005, Olivet moved to the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus. The following year, he passed the presidency to another Christian educator, while he became International President, taking charge of global mission and outreach.

Through his leadership, the university grew in scope and recognition. In 2009, Olivet gained accreditation through the Association for Biblical Higher Education. New programs were added, including Business, Language Education, and doctoral-level studies. The institution also expanded its partnerships, and in 2007, he became a member of the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance. His vision for training future leaders for mission continues to guide Olivet’s growth today.

Founder of Christian Media Outlets

Along with his work in education, Dr. Jang also founded Christian media organizations. Among them are Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, where he continues to serve as founder and senior advisor. He was also part of the founding team and served as senior advisor for The Christian Post.

Recognized for Journalistic Excellence

Christian Daily International has received recognition for its journalism. In 2025, it was awarded second place in the Evangelical Press Association’s Award of Excellence for Newspaper/Online News. This award recognized its quality of writing, editorial content, design, and site navigation. The previous year, in 2024, the same outlet also won second place in the EPA’s “Best in Class” awards. These honors reflect its steady pursuit of excellence in Christian journalism.

Leadership Roles

David has held numerous leadership positions throughout his ministry. As President of the Holy Bible Society, he directed efforts to make the Bible available through digital technology, particularly in mission frontiers.

He was a member of the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance for 11 years, contributing to the development of evangelical unity and mission strategies. He also served as the 88th President of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, where he played a leading role within the denomination.

He established Apostolos Missions, a campus-based mission organization, and also founded 11 specialized mission groups. Each of these groups was committed to spreading the Gospel worldwide and making disciples. In addition, he started Diakonos, a gathering of deacons, and encouraged the church to focus on front missions as a way of fulfilling the Great Commission. Dr. Jang also trained back-mission workers, often referred to as business-as-mission workers, to support global mission work. Today, he continues to offer counsel, teach Biblical lessons, and guide families in Christ.

A Life of Giving

After completing his doctorate, he founded a church but later donated all of its assets. Since that time, he has dedicated himself to providing financial support for students and families in need. His inspiration has come from 2 Corinthians 8:9, which speaks of Christ’s humility and sacrifice. He believes Christians should follow this example, living with humility and dedicating themselves to lifting the poor.

Personal Life

David is a devoted husband, father of two sons, and grandfather to his granddaughters. Outside of ministry, he enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. His personal interests balance his work in mission and education.

David Jang’s life reflects service, leadership, and faith. Through Olivet University, Christian media outlets, and mission organizations, he has raised leaders, supported churches, and advanced the Gospel. His journey shows a lifelong commitment to Christ, and David continues to dedicate himself to serving God and others.

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