Close to 500 students shared in nearly $500,000 during Thompson Rivers University’s annual Foundation awards ceremony Nov. 20 in the TRU Gym.

479 students attended the ceremony and shared in $483,776. Factoring in those unable to attend and others who had already received awards, the total for this fall semester is 639 students sharing in $751,248.

“For 32 years the TRU Foundation has been supporting students and the university,” said David Paul, TRU Foundation chair. “During this time, the Foundation through the generosity of our donors, has built an endowment portfolio for student assistance of $15.4 million dollars. “

He went on to say, “Last year the Foundation raised a record-breaking $5 million for students, buildings, and programs at TRU. This could not have been achieved without the continued support of our donors and the hard work and efforts of the volunteers and staff team.”

TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Alan Shaver applauded the generosity of the donors whose commitment to education compels them to donate their time, money, or both.

“Today, a learning community and a caring community come together to help people improve their lives,” said Shaver. “This, I believe, clearly symbolizes what TRU stands for. We should all be very proud of what the people in this room represent for TRU, for the Kamloops region, and for higher education in general. This ceremony brings together individuals, businesses and organizations who believe in the importance of learning and education—so much so that they commit funds and volunteer hours to financially assist TRU students.”

Sean Harris, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing student, addressed the audience and spoke of the awards he has received along with mentorship from his donors. The financial gifts and guidance, he said, have been invaluable and have allowed him to pursue his dreams.

Media inquires
Christopher Seguin
Vice-President Advancement, Thompson Rivers University
Phone: 250-574-0474
Email: cseguin@tru.ca