Dr. David Spittal assumed MNU’s presidency in 2012 and has become an integral part of many lives through his 13 years of involvement and care for the campus and community. His leadership, participation, and humor have endeared him to the campus over the years, leaving a lasting impression. As Dr. Spittal’s time as president at MNU comes to a close, we asked several students to reflect on his impact both personally and throughout the school.
What is one thing about Dr. Spittal that stands out to you?
Nick Allen, senior
“His presence. Whether at chapel, walking around, or at events, you can see him and approach him. He’s not just a person behind the curtain.”
Trisha Dees, senior
“Even on a campus full of students, he knows my name and he knows me. As a student of color, it stands out to me that he cares about diversity and making sure that students of color feel seen.”
What’s your favorite Dr. Spittal moment?
Kati Blaylock, senior
“One of my favorite moments was one year at the Legacy of Leadership dinner, when he got my name totally wrong and apologized afterwards. I’ve never let him live it down, and he’s always been a good sport.”
Kylea McDorman, junior
“I LOVE that he was able to give his fun side to the student body a bit more this year with our Homecoming announcement video, I think that it set a great precedent for that coming week and got a lot of great response from not only students, but faculty, staff, and even alumni!”
How have you seen Dr. Spittal’s character and faith influence you or the campus?
Kati:
“He is so Christlike in the way that he is always putting others’ needs in front of his own. He makes a point to be out and attend events to show his support, even without his title. Dr. Spittal is one of the humblest people I’ve ever met.”
Trisha:
“I think just seeing him love people who are different without a second thought and just trusting what God will do because he’s seen Him do it before.”
What legacy do you think Dr. Spittal will leave behind?
Kylea:
“Dr. Spittal will leave behind the legacy of commitment to MNU. Day in and day out, I was able to see how much he truly loved this University and cared for each individual who attends or works here.”
Nick:
“Dr. Spittal has always been involved with those he is overseeing. He’ll be remembered as being an active shepherd in his community.”
Trisha:
“He is going to leave behind a legacy of being goofy, compassionate, talented, and being someone who loves people.”
Do you have any messages for him in his retirement?
Kati:
“I wish Dr Spittal and Donna a really great retirement. As much as it saddens me that you two are leaving, wherever you end up, I know you’re going to continue building that pioneer legacy. Once a Pioneer, always a Pioneer! I also hope you’re able to go sailing in Maine.”
Kylea:
“I pray for good luck in this next step of his life. That he and Donna can rest and enjoy this next season of their life, pour into their relationships with family and friends, and celebrate life together.”
Dr. Spittal’s Perspective
In reflecting on his time at MNU, Dr. Spittal fondly remembers the countless diplomas he has handed out, the students who have grown tremendously during their formative years in college, and especially those who have overcome significant challenges. He views his legacy as a relay race—to run as fast and as far as you can before handing it off: “The legacy that I value is the ‘spirit of the pioneer.’ I didn’t create it, it’s been here since the beginning, but it’s what happens when God brings people together for the good of all students, faculty, and staff.”
To the students he leaves behind, Dr. Spittal says, “You are cared about here, perhaps more now than ever in your lifetime. Go create that environment for other people and carry it around with you. Trust God with everything. Don’t diminish your hopes and dreams.”
Seeing the tremendous things that God has done on the campus over the last few years has taught Dr. Spittal to “never under-imagine, or under-dream.”
As it says in Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV), “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.”
Enjoy photos of President and First Lady Spittal’s MNU years on Flickr.
The author, Victoria (Tori) Lotz is a 2025 alumnus. She graduated summa cum laude with a marketing and graphic design degree. She is a women’s track and field national champion and was the 2024-2025 Associated Student Government director of publicity. Tori interned for University Communications in the 2024-2025 academic year.
