It is with deep gratitude that I begin my journey as president and vice-chancellor of Thompson Rivers University. I am honoured to serve this university I care deeply about, and to walk alongside a community already striving ahead with purpose.
TRU is a dynamic institution — rooted in the region, yet boldly shaping the province and beyond. I step into this role with a clear purpose: to help people gain and share knowledge and skills that make a difference.
I believe the future of TRU is innovative, inclusive and distinct. TRU is a place where vocational and academic learning are unified; where Secwépemc ways of knowing are foundational; where both academic excellence and accessibility are possible, and where we live within our means while growing our impact. Our future TRU is a national leader in world-class applied research and education — deeply engaged in solving the challenges of interior B.C. and contributing value to national and global futures. In our future, TRU has redefined what it means to be a university. We operate beyond the generic patterns and practices of higher education. Distinct — proudly outside the generic patterns and practices of higher education. And finally, our future TRU is One university — focused, courageous and exceptional.
I believe in leading with openness, equity and a focus on results. I believe in TRU — in our people, vision and future. And I believe in the power of philanthropy to make a strong, brave and caring Future TRU. To the many donors who believe in our mission and invest in our shared future — thank you. Your generosity is shaping the future of TRU. Your hopes and ambitions for TRU are already changing lives.
Kukwstsétsemc,
Dr. Airini
TRU President and Vice-Chancellor
On behalf of the TRU Foundation board, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you whose support fuels our mission. In the last fiscal year, the TRU Foundation dispersed $2.1 million in donor funds to more than 1,000 students through awards, scholarships and bursaries in addition to supporting research initiatives and other university endeavours. In 2024-2025, thanks to astounding donor support, $11,756,890 was raised in gifts and pledges — money that is already opening doors to opportunity, advancing groundbreaking research and ensuring TRU continues to grow as a hub of innovation and learning.
Thanks to the generosity of every person who gives in support of TRU students as well as careful management by the foundation, the TRU Foundation endowment continues to grow, currently sitting at more than $40 million. Every contribution, large or small, creates a ripple effect that touches lives and strengthens our community. Thanks to all the donors for your unwavering commitment. Your impact is profound, and we are deeply grateful.
Thank you also to the members of the TRU Foundation board of directors for their service to TRU, and all the TRU Advancement staff who work tirelessly to build a culture of philanthropy at TRU.
Sincerely,
Mack Kanigan
TRU Foundation President
