Leadership
Founder vision and namesake legacy guiding DKU
Dr. André Talla
Founder • Chancellor • Global Education LeaderDr. André Talla is the Founder and Chancellor of Dale Kietzman University (DKU) and the Founder of the African Academy of Christian Leadership (AACL). A visionary educator, minister, and social entrepreneur, he established these institutions to expand accessible, Christ-centered, and globally relevant higher education to underserved communities around the world.
In 2004, while pursuing doctoral studies in International Development, Dr. Talla founded the African Academy of Christian Leadership (AACL) to equip ethical leaders for service in Africa and beyond. What began as a leadership initiative grew into a multi-campus, international educational network serving students across the United States, Africa, and online worldwide.
Under his leadership, the vision expanded to include:
- Dale Kietzman University (USA)
- Dale Kietzman School of Theology (California)
- Institut Supérieur Dale Kietzman (Cameroon)
- Global online and hybrid degree programs serving working adults and international students
Dr. Talla combines academic leadership, ministry experience, and institutional strategy, building sustainable models that integrate faith, workforce readiness, and affordable education. His work focuses especially on first-generation students, immigrants, and underserved populations who seek both professional advancement and spiritual formation.
Today, he continues to lead DKU and its partner institutions with a commitment to:
Faith • Excellence • Access • Global Impact
Dr. Dale W. Kietzman
Bible Translator • Educator • Mentor • NamesakeDr. Dale W. Kietzman was a respected Bible translator, educator, and Christian leader whose life of service shaped the values of the institutions that bear his name.
He spent 15 years in Brazil translating the New Testament into the Quechua language, enabling indigenous communities to access Scripture in their native tongue.
After returning to the United States, he served as:
- Director of U.S. Operations, Wycliffe Bible Translators
- Founder, Wycliffe Associates
- Professor & Dean of Students, William Carey International University
During the early formation of AACL, Dr. Kietzman served as a trusted counselor, mentor, and spiritual advisor to Dr. Talla, offering wisdom and encouragement that helped shape the institution’s Christ-centered foundation.
In honor of his lifelong dedication to Christian education and servant leadership, the university proudly carries his name, continuing the legacy he modeled.
