Connecting with classmates and professors over pancake breakfast, taking a walking tour of the newest facilities on campus, or enjoying improv comedy and live music with the family — these are just some of the ways in which Homecoming weekend is a joyful reunion for alumni, staff, faculty, and TWU supporters.
Generations of faithfulness
On September 12–13, Trinity Western University welcomed alumni and families back to the Langley campus for Homecoming 2025. The annual event brought together over 1,300 graduates and community members to reminisce and participate in the ongoing growth of TWU.
New to this year’s celebrations was a reunion for the Class of 1995, who celebrated 30 years since graduation. For their 30th TWU anniversary, alumni gathered for an afternoon reception, coordinated by TWU Director of Athletics Jeff Gamache, and alumni Carolyn Mortensen and Ryan Snider. After catching up with old friends, the Class of 1995 heard TWU President Todd F. Martin speak on the past, present, and future vision of the University.
Milestones celebrated
The University community was delighted to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Class of 1980—Trinity Western College’s first four-year degree graduates. Their experiences of friendship, mentorship, and faith-filled learning represent the legacy on which TWU continues to build.
Alumni from the Trinity Western College era, who attended between 1972–1985, were especially honoured at a dedicated gathering coordinated by alumni Dan and Robin Brinkman. In 1985, Trinity Western College became Trinity Western University after receiving full membership into the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC) and being established as a university.
"The legacy you helped build is the foundation for every new generation who steps onto these grounds.”
From legacy to future vision
Welcoming alumni of all years, President Martin shared in his Homecoming message: “This is your university, and your story is forever woven into its fabric.”
“The best chapters of TWU’s story are still being written," he continued, "The legacy you helped build is the foundation for every new generation who steps onto these grounds.”
Voices joined in worship
Saturday's events began with a Kickoff Breakfast at the Mattson Centre and Ubuntu Pavilion, where alumni and their families gathered under the late-summer sun to reconnect with classmates and faculty. Throughout the day, guided Campus Tours gave guests the chance to revisit familiar places and see what’s new on campus, sparking both nostalgia and excitement for TWU’s future.
At the heart of the Homecoming experience was Homecoming Chapel in the David E. Enarson Gymnasium. Alumni worship leaders—including Tim McCarthy and Phil Vanderveen—joined voices with current students and guests, filling the gym with songs of praise.
Adventures across campus
The afternoon was alive with activities across campus. A complimentary Homecoming lunch invited alumni to share meals and memories with former professors and friends. Families enjoyed the Family Fun Fair on the Reimer Student Centre lawn, complete with games, farm animals, inflatables, and the high ropes course.
The day also included laughter and creativity with the 11:07 Alumni Improv Show at the DeVries Centre, led by Andrew Bright from the Panic Squad and fellow improv alumni. Meanwhile, recent graduates gathered at the Young Alumni “Back to the 20s Lounge” in the Lower Caf, where live jazz and photo opportunities created a welcoming space for classes of 2020–2025.
Engaging Christian perspectives
Advancing the integration of Christian faith and academics, alumni explored theology and technology in an Alumni Learn session, “The A.I. in Faith,” where Dr. Kevin Schut and Dr. Jason Burtt engaged in a thoughtful dialogue on the promises and challenges of artificial intelligence from a Christian perspective.
Music filled the Robert G. Kuhn Centre with a moving choral performance featuring TWU students and alumni led by Dr. Benjamin Ewert, blending voices across generations. Following this, a lively performance by high school students in MEI's marching band drew crowds.
Basketball legends take over the court
Later that afternoon, the Alumni Legends Basketball Game brought spirited competition to the David E. Enarson Gymnasium, as the current TWU Spartans men’s basketball team faced off against former Spartans, including Jacob Doerksen, Brian Banman, Danny Horner, Mason Bourcier, and Michael Brouwer. Fans cheered through giveaways, entertainment, and the beloved alumni baby race.
The day ended under the lights at Chase Office Field, where alumni and families gathered to watch the TWU Spartans men’s soccer team face off against Grant MacEwan. The match capped the weekend with energy and enthusiasm.
Looking ahead
Homecoming 2025 was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, the dedication of staff, faculty, and student leaders, and the support of alumni who came from near and far. For Vice President of Alumni Engagement Clement Wee, the essence of the weekend was simple: “Homecoming is just one beautiful representation of what it looks like when proud alumni come together to reconnect with their university."
As alumni departed, they carried with them not only fond memories but also the reminder that TWU’s mission continues through them. The University looks forward to welcoming many more alumni and families for Homecoming 2026.
About TWU Alumni
We invite our alumni community to continue to participate in the life of the University. Our desire is to nurture an engaged and flourishing global community of alumni by cultivating meaningful relationships and creating engaging alumni experiences. Learn more at TWU Alumni.
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. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.