On a clear, yet brisk, February afternoon, the sun shone down on members and friends of the TWU community who gathered to break ground on a new chapter in the university’s history.
President Mark Husbands began the ceremony with these words: “God has brought us to this time and place. In breaking the ground beneath us, we take the first step in the construction of a new building for the study of business, international education, leadership, adult, and online education.” He continued, “This building represents a concrete and forward-looking commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and leadership. All of this is a strategic expression of our identity and mission as the leading global Christian university in Canada.”
The construction of the Robert G Kuhn Building also represents the legacy of its namesake President Emeritus Robert G. Kuhn. Bob Kuhn, who served as president for six years from 2013 to 2019, led the university through many significant transitions as it adapted to record growth in enrolment and a significant increase in graduating students across both undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, former president Kuhn was responsible for launching the 2020 Vision capital campaign that secured the funds to develop this new building.
Designed by architect Ray Wolfe (Thinkspace), the Robert G Kuhn Building is destined to be the new home of Trinity Western University’s School of Business as well as GLOBAL, which represents TWU’s non-traditional and extension programs. Leadership from both areas were on hand to share in the celebration and offer their words to commemorate this historic milestone.
“Three things that stand out to me about Bob Kuhn are his love for Trinity Western University, his persistence and courage in the face of challenge, and his love of adventure,” shared Dr. Sonya Grypma, Dean of GLOBAL. “In that spirit, GLOBAL seeks to reduce barriers to Christian university education through innovative programs geared toward adult, online, and international learners.”
Kevin Sawatsky, Dean of the School of Business, offered his perspective on the significant growth that underscores the need for the new building: “At the time of its founding in 2001, the School of Business had approximately 250 students. Today the School of Business has approximately 1,000 undergraduate and MBA students.” He continued, “I know that the building we are celebrating today will allow us to continue to flourish and grow.”
Jack Froese, Mayor of the Township of Langley, was also present at the ceremony and praised the construction of the Robert G Kuhn Building for the benefits this facility will bring to Trinity Western University and the community of Langley as a whole. He also credited Trinity Western University for playing a part in teaching students, creating partnerships, and enhancing the economy of the Township of Langley for the past six decades.
The outworking of the mission of Trinity Western University has always been to benefit the world through equipped leaders who possess a heart for Christ as they serve God and others. Thanks in part to the overwhelming generosity and faith of donors, it was possible on this day to break ground for a building that will empower students to find meaning not just in what they do, but in who they become.
