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Trinity Western University marked a significant milestone on Sept. 5, 2025 celebrating the 10th anniversary of their Richmond campus.

Photo courtesy Trinity Western University

TWU Richmond celebrates 10 years of global Christian education

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 2:20 PDT, Thu September 11, 2025

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Trinity Western University marked a significant milestone on Sept. 5, 2025, celebrating the 10th anniversary of TWU Richmond. Since opening in 2015, the branch campus has grown to two locations, serving international students and working adults in one of Canada’s most diverse urban centres.

The commemorative event brought together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community supporters at TWU’s Minoru location to honour a decade of innovative Christian higher education in Richmond.

The day began with a special student lunch with TWU President Dr. Todd F. Martin, followed by an evening community reception. Guests were invited to enjoy photo displays highlighting TWU Richmond’s history and growth over the past decade.

TWU Richmond student leaders played an important role in making the evening a success. They volunteered to greet guests, mingle with attendees, and help ensure everyone felt welcomed throughout the event.

In addition, visitors were invited to explore TWU Richmond’s unique spaces dedicated to student wellness and spiritual development. The Upper Room, a prayer and meditation space, and a Wellness Room, designed for relaxation and re-energizing, were open throughout the event, reflecting the campus’ commitment to supporting the whole student.

The celebration drew government members and international consular representatives. Rebecca Swaim, executive director of TWU Richmond, opened the program, while University Siya’m Patti Victor and Musqueam Elder Shane Pointe provided territorial greetings and a land acknowledgment.

Special greetings followed from Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie, Richmond RCMP Chief Superintendent Dave Chauhan—who presented TWU Richmond with a certificate of appreciation. MLA Teresa Wat (Richmond-Bridgeport), another long-time supporter of the University, shared video greetings. The event also welcomed MLA Hon Chan (Richmond Centre) and MLA Steve Kooner (Richmond-Queensborough).

The audience heard remarks from MP Chak Au (Richmond Centre – Marpole), who considered himself an “old friend” of TWU Richmond. MP Parm Bains, (Richmond East – Steveston) was honoured to be present as well. Dr. Ricardo Arredondo, Consul General of the Argentine Republic and Dean of the Consular Corps of British Columbia, brought greetings on behalf of his country’s diplomatic office and the consular community of B.C.
A delegation from the Chinese Consulate General in Vancouver was present to celebrate the University's milestone, as well as representatives from Laos, Kenya, and the Ukraine consular community.

Dr. Phil Laird, TWU’s vice president of innovation, global and academic partnerships, introduced the Richmond Steering Committee, whose leadership was instrumental in launching the Richmond campus. Current members—including Paul Lermitte (Chair), Wayne Duzita (Past Chair), Dr. Matthew Kwok, Clara Chow, Dr. Vivek Savkur, Alice Tang, Lili Sha, Mike Morgan, and Rebecca Swaim—were recognized with a gift presentation from President Todd F. Martin.

President Martin reflected on TWU Richmond’s legacy and its role in making Christian higher education accessible to learners across cultures. The highlight of the evening included the presentation of a commemorative video that shared the story of TWU Richmond’s impact on students and the broader community.

In closing, Rebecca Swaim thanked students, faculty, staff, and supporters for contributing to TWU Richmond's continuing legacy.

Guests stayed for a networking reception, extending the celebration of this milestone.