On Oct. 24, Trinity Western University welcomed donors, students, alumni, faculty, and University leaders to its Langley campus for the 2026 Legacy Luncheon, an annual event recognizing the individuals and families whose generosity opens doors for students through scholarships, endowed awards, and philanthropic support.
The gathering highlighted the shared commitment of the TWU community to helping students pursue their education, grow in their faith, and prepare to serve others through their vocations.
With this in mind, TWU President Dr. Todd F. Martin invited guests to reflect on a central question: “What is the legacy that we're trying to leave together?”
Behind every scholarship, a story
Fourth-year School of Education student Genevieve Taylor shared how scholarship support is helping her pursue a calling to teach and invest in future generations. A recipient of the Alumni Legacy Endowed Scholarship and a family scholarship, Taylor spoke about the encouragement she has received throughout her educational journey, including the influence of her late father, Ted Taylor, a TWU alumnus whose faith and perseverance continue to inspire her.
“This scholarship means so much more than just receiving financial aid,” Taylor said. “It also signifies that I am seen as having potential for our society’s future.”
Graduate student Landon Rishe, who is completing a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Humanities, reflected on how scholarship support has shaped his time at TWU. Over five years of undergraduate and graduate studies, he has benefited from donor-funded awards that have enabled him to pursue academic opportunities, develop meaningful relationships, and explore how his faith and learning intersect.
“Your continued generosity ensures that countless students like me receive the gift of a Christ-honouring education,” he told donors.
A lifetime of giving back
The luncheon also honoured Paul and Janet Lermitte with the 2026 Legacy Distinction Award in recognition of their longstanding service and support of TWU and its students.
Both alumni, the Lermittes have maintained a deep connection to the University since meeting as students. Their family’s ties to TWU now span generations, with two sons and a daughter-in-law also among its graduates.
Over the years, Janet has served as a part-time instructor in English, creative writing, and leadership, while Paul contributed his expertise and played a key role in establishing TWU Richmond at Minoru. Together, they have supported students through initiatives including the Lynn R. Szabo Endowed Award and the TWU Alumni Endowed Business Scholarship.
Reflecting on their journey, Paul spoke about the ways God’s plans often unfold beyond what people initially envision for themselves.
Investing in generations to come
In his address, Dr. Martin encouraged guests to consider the lasting impact of investing in students they may never personally meet.
“Legacy giving is an act of faith because it’s an investment in the students you may never meet,” he said.
The president noted that TWU’s endowment has grown from approximately $4 million in 2002 to $60 million today, with a goal of reaching $100 million. Behind those numbers are opportunities for students to pursue their education, discover their calling, and carry their faith into the world.
The luncheon also featured reflections from Dr. David Pao, dean of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), a prayer of thanksgiving led by TWU Provost Dr. Susan Wendel, and a video featuring alumna Mandelena Chetty (’25), whose TWU education helped prepare her to establish a primary school in Zambia. The event concluded with a performance by the TWU Chamber Choir.
Throughout the afternoon, one message remained clear: every gift creates opportunities for students to grow, lead, and serve. For donors gathered at the Legacy Luncheon, the stories shared were a reminder that generosity continues to shape lives today while building a legacy that will extend far beyond the present generation.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students for life. Uniting faith and reason through Christian teaching and scholarship, TWU is a research institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the humanities and sciences as well as in several professional schools. TWU has its main campus in Langley, B.C. and campus sites in Richmond, B.C. and Ottawa, Ont.
Learn more at twu.ca or follow @TrinityWestern on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. For media inquiries, please contact media@twu.ca.