For 50 years, our commitment to community and to transforming lives has never wavered. We've persevered through wildfires and economic downturns, and each time we’ve held our promise. Now a global pandemic has challenged everyone to rethink how life is lived and how business is conducted.
Though the COVID-19 health crisis has changed how we operate, we are not cancelling our 50th anniversary celebrations—we’re just doing things a bit differently as we follow the necessary government recommendations and mandates.
We’re still here for you.
That was our commitment when our doors opened in 1970 as Cariboo College, as we transitioned to the University College of the Cariboo in the 1990s, and then when we became Thompson Rivers University in 2005.
We look forward to seeing you at any number of our celebration events, whether they're held online or, in the future, in small groups.
Our anniversary wordmark
You’ll see this wordmark often in 2020 including on campus banners, in institutional advertising and internal communications. To start with, the TRU logo will be accompanied by a special partner this year: a 50th anniversary wordmark incorporating our current and historical colour palettes.
In this blog post by President Brett Fairbairn, he looks at TRU's history and future: TRU’s 50th – What do anniversaries mean?
We are offering up a range of events with an educational component as one way to give back to everyone. Events will include performances and informal lectures from engaging researchers.
During this time of limited social interactions, events will be delivered online and in a format that will allow you to provide feedback and pose questions.
When we’re able to meet in small groups, you will have the opportunity to attend in person, while other events may be a combination of in person and online.
Check back soon for upcoming events.
Past Events
Have a strength or skill you’d like to share with us? We’d love to have you on our team.
We have a number of ways you can contribute your time, whether it’s at an event, helping to plan one or as a member of a sub-committee. We’re also open to suggestions.
What are your favorite memories of TRU? We want to hear them.
During this time when gatherings are not an option, we’re realize how the time we spend with others is what makes life the experience it is.
Here are some topics to get you thinking: What’s a moment you’ll never forget? Are you a charter alumni? Was your first job at Cariboo College? Did you cheer on any of the sports teams? What events or fundraisers did your campus club have? What was a favourite place on campus to meet for a break? Where did you meet friends to study? Was there a tree that provided the best shade on a warm spring day? Who was your funniest instructor?
Memories from everyone are welcome!
There are two ways to contribute:
Read Submission
Memory, Ginny Ratsoy
Read Submission
Cariboo engineering students pull of crazy car stunt
About
We are creating a list of 50 people who have been instrumental in TRU becoming what it is today.
Influencers are characterized by their leadership, impact, innovation and abilities to envision the future.
A committee will gather up the submissions and create the list from applications and selected honorees. We will be publishing the list to the TRU 50th Anniversary website.
Process and Deadline
To nominate someone, complete the online application below by July 31, 2020.
Required Materials/Documentation
Supporting documents are not required, though we encourage you to submit them. They may be letters of recommendation, articles that the nominee has been featured in, news clippings, testimonials, etc.
Contact
Have questions about the program, including the nomination, selection process or criteria? Contact 50@tru.ca
Submission formNote: Provincial mandates and recommendations will determine what this weekend looks like.
Celebrate 50 with TRU: September 11-13
Mark this weekend in your calendar and join us in celebrating our golden anniversary.
Williams Lake Homecoming Celebration September 26, 2020.
Some events will be live streamed. Check back often for celebration updates.
A celebration lunch will be part of the 50th Anniversary Homecoming Weekend.
Join us on Saturday, Sept 12, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Grand Hall of the Campus Activity Centre for a time of catching up, reminiscing, laughs, creating new friendships, new partnerships, networking and finding out how you can create a deeper connection to TRU.
Become a champion today and book a table for your class.
Sign up
