It was 1978 when Nels Hawkinson (’80) was called into President Neil Snider’s office. Nels was a second-year student at the time and loved playing basketball for Trinity Western. But because it was still a young college, there weren’t the same full-ride scholarships available that many other schools were offering in the United States. President Snider knew that if he wanted to keep Nels at the school, they’d have to get creative. It was at that meeting that the very first student recruiter position at Trinity Western was created. In exchange for free room and board in the following year, Nels would go across North America to promote the school, collect names, and recruit as many new students as possible.

On September 6th, 2019, nearly forty TWU Alumni celebrated the launch of the Edmonton Chapter. It was an exciting night, made possible thanks to the Edmonton Chapter Champions: Jeff Miller ('16), Laurel Kirchner (Shute, '88), Nathan Foerger ('14).

Before forming this chapter, these three alumni were basically strangers. But now, through their connection to the TWU Alumni Association, they have formed a friendship and are excited to work together to host events in Edmonton.

Inspired by the work of successful business leaders, James Woller (’05) has dedicated much of his time and resources to do what he can to make a positive difference in the world. Today, as the International Executive Director of Thrive, he is working on what he believes has the power to completely disrupt poverty around the world and change the course of history.