Chillicothe, OH – Ohio Christian University (OCU) is excited to announce that R.D. Saunders has been selected as the next president of the institution. A longtime supporter of OCU, Saunders, along with his wife, Shelli, are both proud alumni of the university. The announcement of his appointment was made by the OCU Board of Trustees and the General Board of Trustees of the Churches of Christ in Christian Union.
“I am honored for Shelli and I to come home to Ohio and to our beloved Ohio Christian University,” said R.D. Saunders. “We are deeply grateful for the board’s confidence in us, and we are thrilled that God has opened this door for us. We cannot wait to get to work, advancing the mission of OCU and raising ‘oaks of righteousness’ for God’s glory.”
For the past seven years, Saunders served as Vice President of Advancement for EQUIP Leadership and the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, working closely with renowned leadership expert John Maxwell to impact ministries and organizations globally. His leadership in fundraising has seen the organization’s income quadruple over the last seven years.
A Central Ohio native, Saunders’ spiritual foundation was shaped by his godly grandparents, who introduced him to the faith at local church camps. He felt a calling to ministry early on and chose to attend Ohio Christian University, where he met Shelli and began a lifelong commitment to leadership and service. Saunders has an extensive background in pastoral leadership, having served churches in Ohio, Florida, and Georgia for over two decades. His passion for personal growth and leadership led him to study under Dr. John Maxwell, which played a crucial role in his ability to grow and lead thriving congregations.
In 2002, Saunders joined EQUIP Leadership as an Associate Trainer, and in 2009, transitioned to international ministry work. By 2017, he had become Vice President of Advancement at the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, significantly expanding the organization’s global outreach and impact.
In addition to his deep experience in ministry and leadership, Saunders completed a master’s degree in organizational leadership in 2022. He is now focused on his role as OCU’s president, where he aims to empower students to become leaders who transform the world for Christ in all sectors of society.
“We are excited to welcome President Saunders and his wife, Shelli, to the OCU family,” said the university’s Board of Trustees. “We are confident that his experience, vision, and leadership will guide Ohio Christian University into a bright future.”
Saunders, who is passionate about college football, the Civil War, and smoking meat, looks forward to working closely with students, faculty, and staff to build a future rooted in Christian values. He and Shelli have two married sons, Landon and Logan, and are eagerly anticipating the arrival of grandchildren.
“I look forward to helping shape the future of OCU and raising up future leaders who will honor God and make a lasting impact in their communities,” Saunders added. “This is truly an exciting time for all of us.”
