Keeping Promises

by Dr. R. Neil Snider
for Trinity Western Magazine

Fall 2005

We make a promise to each student who comes to Trinity Western University--that they will experience a university education unlike any other in Canada.  They join a visionary community distinguished by academic excellence, a holistic approach to student development and mentoring, and by a conviction that integrating our Christian perspective into every aspect of University life provides an ideal and transformative learning environment.  And we know this unique experience leads to great things.  It enables graduates to contribute with skill, integrity and hope in the marketplace and in their communities.  I'm in my 32nd year as TWU's president, and I'm even more passionate about this promise now than I was on my first day.

Each September the broad TWU community is full of expectation about the new academic year, and I believe this will be a special year for us.  Indeed, our quest to discover the University's third president makes this a defining year for the institution.  This is an exciting prospect, as we envision how God will continue to grow the dynamic fulfillment of our mission in the future.  I have great confidence in the Board-appointed presidential search committee and the consultative process they've led, and invite you to support them prayerfully in their important task.

I'm also anticipating my transition to chancellor next summer, and the opportunity to focus my energy on serving as an ambassador for the University in an external relations and fundraising role.  So many people have given extraordinarily to support TWU, and to Marlie and me.  And though I won't have my sweetheart Marlie by my side as in the past, the prospect of continuing serve the Trinity Western community in this new way is heartening.  Indeed, I'm more passionate than ever about keeping and sharing our inspiring promise because I believe our culture is in greater need than ever before of experiencing Christ-centred hope--a hope being lived out by our students, alumni, staff, faculty and donors in every marketplace of life.