Ten years ago, Trinity Western University opened the doors of its Richmond, B.C. campus with a vision to expand access to Christian higher education in one of Canada’s most diverse and globally connected cities.
What began as an idea in 2007 has since grown into a thriving academic and community hub, serving thousands of students and forging strong partnerships across the region. Today, in addition to its Langley main campus and Ottawa-based Laurentian Leadership Centre, Trinity Western warmly welcomes students from all over the globe to study at its two locations in Richmond: Minoru and Lansdowne.
Reaching global students
The journey to Richmond was not a short one. After years of planning and perseverance led by the Richmond Steering Committee with the support of University leadership, TWU began offering courses at the Richmond Cultural Centre in 2012 and the Richmond Olympic Oval in 2013. These first programs, designed especially for global students and working adults, reflected TWU’s commitment to accessibility and innovation.
Fast forward three years—the support from students and the local community was going strong. By the fall of 2015, the University opened its dedicated campus at 5900 Minoru Boulevard, welcoming 140 students enroled in leadership programs, as well as academic language training through Trinity Language Centre.
Welcoming students into a vibrant community
The campus quickly grew in its programs and services. Within its first few years, TWU Richmond launched its MBA program, equipping leaders through faith- and values-based business training, and introduced the MA in Theology (Mandarin) program, expanding its offerings to include Christian ministry training. By 2018, enrolment had surpassed 530 students, and the vibrant learning community was already outgrowing its original space.
"This is a place where students from all over the world are equipped to grow, discover their potential, and step confidently into their calling.”
Enrolment growth sparks additional opening in Lansdowne
By 2019, enrolment exceeded 700 students and TWU expanded to a second site at Lansdowne Mall, just a short walk from the Minoru site. Although the global pandemic disrupted operations only two months after the new site opened, the Lansdowne location—with its high ceilings and open courtyard—allowed the University to host socially distanced events and continue serving students in creative ways during an unprecedented time.
Student experience as the focus
Located in the heart of the city, TWU Richmond was designed with the student experience in mind—open spaces filled with natural light, a central reception for student services, and gathering places that encouraged connection. These features, paired with TWU’s distinctives as a global Christian university, helped create a welcoming and globally minded environment. Richmond’s urban setting also opened new doors for students, providing proximity to transit, housing, and local organizations for experiential learning.
Students making an impact
Beyond academics, TWU Richmond has become an active partner in the community. Since 2015, the campus has provided space for 19 churches and more than 70 community groups to hold events. It has welcomed business associations, local officials, non-profit leaders, and international consulates, becoming a hub for dialogue, connection, and collaboration. Programs such as the Embark business incubator, student-driven leadership initiatives, and an executive MBA program have further positioned TWU Richmond as a place where education intersects with forward-thinking research and real-world impact.
Pursuing educational innovation
Having reached the campus' 10-year milestone, leaders reflect on a decade marked by vision and growth.
"We are delighted to celebrate the 10th anniversary of TWU's branch campus in Richmond, a place where students can flourish academically, spiritually, and professionally, within a vibrant urban centre," remarked TWU President Todd F. Martin.
Strengthening missional momentum
Dr. Phil Laird, TWU's vice president of innovation and global partnerships and chief innovation officer, added, “Educational innovation is about being accessible to people, meeting them where they are, and empowering them to move forward. TWU's Richmond campus strengthens the University's momentum in pursuit of our mission and vision to equip graduates for life."
“At TWU Richmond, our focus is on leadership development and global engagement,” affirmed Rebecca Swaim, TWU Richmond's executive director. “This is a place where students from all over the world are equipped to grow, discover their potential, and step confidently into their calling.”
Celebrating 10 years in Richmond
As TWU Richmond celebrates its 10th anniversary, the story is one of innovation, partnership, and promise. From a small group of students gathering in community centres to a bustling urban campus serving hundreds each year, TWU Richmond has become a vital part of the University’s strategic growth. The next decade holds even greater potential as TWU continues to shape the leaders of tomorrow.
About TWU Richmond
TWU Richmond’s programs are designed to provide international and adult learners with leadership skills and experiential learning that will equip them to make a positive impact in their workplace and communities around the globe. Learn more at TWU Richmond.
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.