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About AACL

AACL leadership engagement and partnership activity in Cameroon.

Who We Are

The African Academy of Christian Leadership (AACL) is a U.S.-based faith nonprofit dedicated to equipping under-resourced Christian leaders across Africa through education, leadership formation, and institutional partnerships.

We focus on leaders who already serve—pastors, educators, administrators, and community builders—helping them gain the academic preparation and leadership skills required for long-term impact.

Our Mission

To strengthen Christian leadership across Africa by expanding access to quality education, leadership training, and institutional partnerships.

Our Vision

Thriving churches, schools, and communities led by trained, ethical, and faith-grounded leaders.

Our History

The story of Dale Kietzman University (DKU) is one of faith, service, and vision—shaped by two leaders committed to making Christ-centered education accessible to those often left behind.

The Legacy of Dr. Dale W. Kietzman

The Legacy of Dr. Dale W. Kietzman

Dr. Dale W. Kietzman was a respected Bible translator, educator, and servant leader devoted to bringing the Gospel and education to underserved communities.

He spent more than fifteen years in South America engaged in Scripture translation work, helping make the New Testament accessible to indigenous peoples in their native languages.

Upon returning to the United States, he served in leadership with Wycliffe Bible Translators, helped advance the work of Wycliffe Associates, and later served as Professor and Dean of Students at William Carey International University.

Known for his humility, wisdom, and steadfast faith, Dr. Kietzman modeled a life of quiet service and leadership. In honor of his lifelong dedication to Christ and education, this university proudly bears his name.

The Vision of Dr. André Talla

The Vision of Dr. André Talla

In 2004, while pursuing doctoral studies in International Development, Dr. André Talla founded the African Academy of Christian Leadership (AACL) with a clear mission: to equip ethical, competent leaders to serve Africa and the global community.

What began as a leadership initiative quickly expanded into an international educational movement.

During AACL’s early development, Dr. Talla found in Dr. Kietzman a trusted mentor and spiritual advisor. Drawing on decades of experience in translation, education, and institutional leadership, Dr. Kietzman provided guidance that helped shape the Christ-centered foundation of what would become Dale Kietzman University.

From Vision to Movement

On November 1, 2007, AACL was formally incorporated in California. From this foundation grew:

Today, DKU serves students across the United States, Africa, and online—particularly first-generation college students, immigrants, working adults, and underserved communities.

Faith. Excellence. Access. Global Impact.

Global Presence & Institutional Authorization

Dale Kietzman University (DKU)
UTAH, USA
Dale Kietzman University (DKU)
AUTHORIZED – RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION

Operates under religious exemption pursuant to the Utah Postsecondary Proprietary School Act (§13-34-105)

Dale Kietzman School of Theology
CALIFORNIA, USA
Dale Kietzman School of Theology
RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION

Religious institution exempt from regulation by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education pursuant to Education Code §94874(e)

Kansas Christian College
KANSAS, USA
Kansas Christian College
ACADEMIC PARTNER

Accredited institution; dual-diploma and academic collaboration partner

Ecclesia College
ARKANSAS, USA
Ecclesia College
ACADEMIC PARTNER

Accredited by ABHE; academic partnership

American National University
VIRGINIA, USA
American National University
ACADEMIC PARTNER

Accredited by DEAC and ABHES; program collaboration partner

Institut Supérieur Dale Kietzman (ISDK)
Cameroon, Africa
Institut Supérieur Dale Kietzman (ISDK)
Affiliated International Campus

Regional academic programs and student recruitment partner

African Academy of Christian Leadership (AACL)
United States & Africa
African Academy of Christian Leadership (AACL)
Nonprofit Partner

501(c)(3) organization supporting scholarships, leadership development, and educational initiatives