The Olathe Chamber of Commerce honored Dr. David J. Spittal, president of MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU), as its 2024 Citizen of the Year, at the Chamber’s annual meeting today. Dr. Spittal, who has led MNU since February 2012, will retire in June after a distinguished term marked by growth, innovation, and deep community engagement.
Upon presenting the award, Chamber Board Chair Gina Riekhof praised Dr. Spittal’s impact on both MNU and the broader Olathe community.
“Dr. Spittal has been the guiding force behind MidAmerica Nazarene University’s success over the past 12 years,” Riekhof said. “During his tenure at MNU, the university has experienced major program expansion and campus development – celebrating its 50th anniversary, opening the Cunningham Center, and helping to put the finishing touches on the Copeland Athletic Complex, slated for completion later this year.”
Tim McKee, Chamber CEO, Dr. David Spittal, Gina Riekhof, Chamber Board Chair.
Beyond his leadership at MNU, Dr. Spittal plays a key role in advancing higher education across Kansas. He serves on the Olathe Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Kansas Independent College Association and the Kansas Independent College Fund. In addition, Riekhof said Dr. Spittal has been instrumental in promoting workforce development in some critical areas of need such as education and healthcare.
As Dr. Spittal prepares for retirement, the Olathe Chamber expressed gratitude for his years of service. “We’ll certainly be sad to see him retire in June,” Riekhof added. “Thank you for everything, Dr. Spittal.”
Mrs. Donna and Dr. David Spittal.
For more information on the presidential search process please click here.
