Ohio Christian University celebrated a significant milestone on Thursday, March 20, 2025, with the inauguration of its 13th president, Ryan D. Saunders. The ceremony took place at 10:30 AM in the Ministry and Performing Arts Center on the university’s campus, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the institution.
An alumnus of OCU, President Saunders brings a deep commitment to the university’s mission of preparing students to serve effectively in both the church and society by offering a holistic, Christ-centered education. With an extensive background in leadership, ministry, and community engagement, Saunders is well-positioned to guide OCU into a future of growth and innovation.
Born in Central Ohio, President Saunders’ spiritual journey was shaped by the strong influence of his godly grandparents, who introduced him to church camps like Mt. of Praise and Stoutsville. It was during this time that he felt a call to ministry, leading him to attend Ohio Christian University. His experience at OCU not only equipped him with exceptional academic training but also provided invaluable practical ministry experiences within the Churches of Christ in Christian Union. It was also at OCU where he met his wife of 38 years, Shelli Brown Saunders, and formed lasting relationships with mentors and friends.
Following his education, Saunders spent 22 years serving as a pastor in Ohio, Florida, and Georgia. His ministry was deeply influenced by fellow OCU alum Dr. John C. Maxwell, under whose mentorship Saunders became a lifelong student of personal growth and leadership. His growth as a leader was mirrored by the success of his congregations, which frequently saw significant increases in membership under his guidance.
In 2002, Saunders began serving as an Associate Trainer for EQUIP Leadership, where he witnessed the power of Christian non-profit leadership to create lasting change. By 2009, Saunders transitioned away from pastoral ministry to focus on global leadership initiatives, serving as a speaker for Leading With 20/20 Vision, an organization dedicated to teaching leadership and personal growth to business leaders around the world.
In 2017, Saunders took on the role of Vice President of Advancement for EQUIP Leadership and the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, working closely with John Maxwell to impact ministry and leadership worldwide. Under his leadership, the foundation’s fundraising efforts saw a fourfold increase over the course of seven years. In 2022, he completed a master’s degree in organizational leadership, further honing his skills as a transformational leader.
President Saunders was elected as Ohio Christian University’s next president in December 2024, with his leadership approach inspired by Isaiah 61, which calls for raising students as future “oaks of righteousness” to transform the world for Christ. With decades of ministry and leadership experience, Saunders is poised to inspire and lead OCU to new heights.
Outside of his professional life, Saunders enjoys college football, studying Civil War history, and smoking meat. He and his wife, Shelli, are excited to soon welcome grandchildren and look forward to a bright future at OCU.
“It is such an honor for Shelli and I to come home to Ohio and to our beloved Ohio Christian University!” President Saunders shared. “We are so grateful for the board’s confidence in us and thrilled that God has clearly opened this door for us in this season of our lives. We can’t wait to get to work on behalf of our students and build an incredible future, raising oaks of righteousness for God’s glory at Ohio Christian University!”
As OCU’s 13th president, Saunders is eager to build on the university’s legacy of excellence and prepare students to serve with integrity and passion in their communities and beyond.
