Dr. Matt Davis, Chief Executive Officer | Maranatha Baptist University
Dr. Matt Davis, Chief Executive Officer | Maranatha Baptist University
On June 7, 2024, Dr. David Oliver, Pastor of Ashley Baptist Church in Belding, Michigan, was unanimously voted in as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He becomes the third person to hold this position in the school’s 56-year history. His predecessor, Dr. Doug Jackson of Saginaw, Michigan, announced his retirement earlier this year after serving over 30 years as Chairman.
Dr. Jackson had been a board member for ten years before becoming Chairman and served Maranatha with steadfast direction for four decades. He was known for his outstanding leadership and unwavering support during both prosperous and challenging times. As one of the few remaining board members to have personally known all of Maranatha’s presidents, his breadth of knowledge provided an invaluable perspective for the Board.
Dr. Marty Marriott, Chancellor, expressed his appreciation for Dr. Jackson’s service: “Dr. Jackson never missed a meeting in forty years, traveling 100K miles in over a hundred trips to Wisconsin from Michigan. He was a staunch defender of the University’s mission and supportive of the president and executive leadership.” Dr. David Anderson, MBU’s President, added that Dr. Jackson is known as "a man of faithful, biblical hope" and is recognized for his generosity towards students, faculty, and staff.
Reflecting on his role as Chairman, Dr. Jackson recalled his appointment at a relatively young age: “Dr. Cedarholm had a great impact on my life... I praise the Lord for the opportunity I’ve had to serve here.” He expressed confidence in leaving the position knowing that the University is "in great shape."
Dr. Dave Oliver has been a member of the Board since 2018 and holds both an earned Doctor of Ministry and an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Maranatha. Known as a faithful pastor and skilled communicator, he has proven himself an effective evangelist and leader within Christian education.
Dr. Anderson shared about Dr. Oliver: “His love of the Word of God... aligns him well for the leadership of our Board of Trustees.”
“The vital contribution of the Board of Trustees would be impossible to overstate,” said Dr. Matt Davis, CEO. He acknowledged Dr. Jackson's significant influence and looked forward to continuing their mission under Dr. Oliver's leadership.
Photo credit: Emma Doyel
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