Dr. David J. Spittal, president of MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU), today announced his plans to retire after more than 12 years of service, effective June 30, 2025. Dr. Spittal assumed MNU’s presidency in February 2012 and has guided the university toward growth and God-honoring excellence.
“Serving this university community has been one of the greatest honors and joys of my life,” he stated. “I have deeply cherished the opportunity.”
Spittal was elected president of MNU after serving as president for 17 years at Southern Wesleyan University in Central, South Carolina. During his tenure at MNU, the university has experienced major program expansion and campus development, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2016 and raising over $85 million in funding for the multi-year Bright Futures Campaign. The campaign funded the opening of the Cunningham Center where students and the community gather in dining, collaboration, and conference spaces. The final phase of the multi-year campaign is constructing the Copeland Athletic Complex slated for completion this year. It will house a new football stadium, track facilities and locker rooms.
Other vital accomplishments during Spittal’s leadership at MNU include strengthening the connection between Nazarene higher education and the denomination, reaffirming accreditation, and encouraging a shared commitment to supporting students spiritually and academically. He is known on campus for his passion for mentorship and fostering community among students and staff.
“This campus community helped move the university through a period of significant challenge and change,” Spittal says. “I credit our leadership team and talented faculty and staff for the progress made during an amazing journey.”
Spittal’s entire career has been devoted to education. He began as a high school music teacher before advancing into public school administration, first serving as assistant superintendent for personnel and labor relations in Connersville, Indiana, and then as superintendent of schools in Marion and Fort Wayne, Indiana. His journey then transitioned to higher education, with leadership roles at Indiana Wesleyan University and eventually as president of Southern Wesleyan University. While leading SWU, the university experienced significant growth, constructing eight new facilities including a dining commons, a chapel and fine arts facility, an education classroom building, and three residence halls. Spittal credits the mentoring he received as a new high school music teacher for his initial interest and entry into a 50-year career in education administration.
An influential local community member, Spittal serves on various councils and boards including the Council of Advisors of the Olathe Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trustees for the Kansas Independent College Association and Kansas Independent College Fund. He is a member of the USA/Canada Council of Education of the Church of the Nazarene.
Spittal completed the Doctor of Education degree at Ball State University in 1975 where he also completed a Bachelor of Science in art and music and a Master of Science in music education.
“My greatest satisfaction has been to walk with students on their journey and hand diplomas to literally thousands of students who are now serving Christ in many professions around the world,” he stated.
Spittal and his wife, Donna, have two married sons, four grandchildren in college, and two in high school. The couple plans to remain in the Olathe community and continue to support the university as it serves and ministers to each generation. They have been integral to the MNU community, embodying the university’s values and mission. His retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable career dedicated to education, faith, and service.
For information on plans to honor Dr. and Mrs. Spittal and their legacy at MNU, follow MNU news at www.mnu.edu/news.
