The year 2021 has been full of changes and transitions. The global pandemic continues to have a significant impact on the Redeemer experience and campus operations. There have also been considerable changes, including saying goodbye last April to president Dr. Robert J. Graham and watching a major construction project significantly transform the campus. Through all of this God has continued to provide for Redeemer as we trust in his leading.
This September, we welcomed 1,014 students to the university, the largest enrolment in Redeemer’s history and the first time Redeemer has served more than 1,000 students! We praise God for the privilege of walking with this many students on their educational journey. It was energizing to see clubs, chapel, student activities and varsity sports resume even in light of COVID-19 protocols that help us make health and safety an ongoing priority as well. As part of the effort to serve as many students as possible, we are also grateful to be offering both in-person and online learning options through dual delivery this academic year.
This September, we welcomed 1,014 students to the university, the largest enrolment in Redeemer’s history and the first time Redeemer has served more than 1,000 students!
As interim president, one of the pleasures I have is meeting many of the donors and members who make Redeemer possible. On October 1, Redeemer held its annual general meeting and 12 new board members were elected. I am deeply grateful and humbled by the number of highly qualified, skilled individuals whose passion for Christian university education and willingness to serve in this critical governance role make Redeemer possible.
Finally, I want to share that Redeemer’s board of governors has appointed a president search committee to fill the president position on a permanent basis. The search committee includes board members, and representation from faculty, alumni and staff. Co-chaired by Lloyd Rang (past board chair) and Denis St. Amour (current board chair), the committee has acquired the services of an expert third-party search firm and is working toward the goal of filling the position as soon as possible in the new year. Please pray that the search for Redeemer’s next president is successful, that God’s leading will be clear, and that Redeemer’s name and reputation will be further enhanced to God’s glory and for his purpose.
Throughout nearly four decades of Redeemer’s history, God has been faithfully present, using this institution to mold, shape and grow Redeemer graduates to share the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Next year, Redeemer will celebrate its 40th anniversary. As we prepare a modest celebration for the fall, we can look back and be reminded of his faithfulness to Redeemer for his Kingdom purposes. It is in looking back that we gain the grounding and motivation to move forward, anticipating his continued faithfulness. He is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine.