David Jang

Founder of Olivet University

Dr. David Jang is the Founder of Olivet University. As a Christian leader, theologian, educator, and missionary, he has dedicated his life to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and advancing the Kingdom of God. From the beginning of his ministry, he engaged in grassroots mission work, often walking long distances and utilizing digital media to bring the Gospel message into regions where it was difficult to access. He emphasized mission training at Olivet University, calling it a “seedbed” for raising disciples and leaders committed to fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).

Early Life and Education

David Jang was born in 1949 and began his academic journey with a focus on theology. He completed a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity at Hanshin University, a leading Presbyterian seminary widely recognized in Korea. His education then extended beyond theology as he pursued a Master of Arts in Communications at Yonsei University, a private Christian research university in Seoul. He later earned a Ph.D. in Public Administration of Social Welfare from Dankook University, one of Seoul’s major private universities.

Throughout his studies, he was guided by mentors who helped shape his vision for ministry and education. One was a well-known American missionary associated with the U.S. Center for World Mission. At the same time, another was a respected Korean scholar of church history and missions who later went on to establish Olivet University Korea. Their influence provided him with insight into both global mission work and Korean church history.

Founding Olivet University, San Francisco

In 2004, he founded Olivet University in a small basement in downtown San Francisco. David chose the city because of its ethnic diversity, something that continues to be reflected in the university’s international faculty and student body.

From its earliest days, it aligned Olivet with the needs of the Christian mission worldwide. The institution began as a theological college and seminary but soon expanded to include schools of Music, Journalism, art and design, and Technology. During this time, he invited a well-regarded mission strategist to join the faculty, who subsequently brought in local scholars who are still serving at Olivet today.

In 2005, the university relocated to the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus, which provided facilities well suited to the school’s mission. The following year, he transitioned the presidency to another Christian educator, while he himself took on the role of International President to focus on global outreach and development.

Under his leadership, Olivet University continued to grow. In 2009, it achieved accreditation through the Association for Biblical Higher Education. The university also launched schools of Business and Language Education and began offering doctoral-level programs. Partnerships expanded as well, including one with the World Evangelical Alliance, where he joined the North American Council in 2007. His vision of training men and women for worldwide mission through formal education remains central to Olivet’s mission today.

Founder of Christian Media Outlets

In addition to his work in education, he made significant contributions to Christian media. Dr. Jang established several outlets, including Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, where he continues to serve as founder and senior advisor. He also played a central role as a founding team member and former senior advisor of The Christian Post.

Recognized for Journalistic Excellence

Christian Daily International received recognition for its work in journalism. In 2025, it was awarded second place in the Evangelical Press Association’s Award of Excellence for Newspaper/Online News. The honor recognized the publication’s quality of writing, editorial standards, design, and navigation. The year before, in 2024, the same outlet also achieved second place in the EPA’s “Best in Class” awards. These acknowledgments reflect the consistent pursuit of excellence in Christian news media.

Leadership Roles

David has held various leadership positions in Christian organizations and missions. He is the President of the Holy Bible Society, which works to expand Bible access through digital technology in areas that remain unreached.

For over a decade, he served as a member of the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance, contributing to efforts that foster unity and cooperation within the global evangelical community. He also held the position of 88th President of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, serving in a leading role within the denomination.

He founded Apostolos Missions, a campus-based organization, along with 11 specialized mission groups dedicated to evangelism and discipleship worldwide. He also established Diakonos, a gathering of deacons, and emphasized the importance of front-line missions in fulfilling the Great Commission. In addition, he trained back-mission workers, often described as business as missions, to provide support for global mission efforts. He continues to guide families in Christ, offer biblical commentary, and teach students in their spiritual and academic journeys.

A Life of Giving

After completing his doctorate, Dr. Jang founded a church but donated all of its assets to support others. From then on, he committed himself to assisting students and families in financial need. His guiding inspiration comes from 2 Corinthians 8:9, which speaks of Christ’s humility and sacrifice. He believes that Christians are called to follow this example, living with humility and dedicating themselves to uplifting the poor and needy in this world.

Personal Life

He is a devoted family man, a husband, and the father of two sons. He is also a grandfather to his beloved granddaughters. Outside of ministry and teaching, he enjoys activities such as golf, swimming, tennis, and reading.

David Jang’s life and work reflect dedication to mission, education, media, and service. From establishing Olivet University to founding Christian media outlets and leading mission organizations, he has remained focused on training leaders, supporting the church, and sharing the Gospel. His ongoing efforts demonstrate his lifelong dedication to serving Christ and humanity.