Friends,

The month of May is a celebratory month at Tyndale University as we give thanks for all God has done in the lives of nearly 300 graduates. Countless hours over a span of years culminate in an exhilarating moment that is shared with family and friends. These graduates have had their lives shaped and influenced by our remarkable faculty, staff and the experiences of a Tyndale education. For all of us, graduations are a highlight of the year.

You also have had a significant role in seeing these students succeed. Thank you for all the ways you have supported Tyndale through praying, attending events, and the gifts you have made. You have been a blessing to many.

This year, in particular, we have even more to celebrate.

Over this past year you have heard us describe Tyndale University as being in a season of living in the “in-between.” There are three factors that continue to contribute to this: the continued impact of lower enrolment during the pandemic, the continued impact of previous long-term debt, even though it has now been eliminated, and the loss of some significant revenue sources that are no longer available to us.

This is the “in-between” – living without the revenue sources of the past several years, along with a clear strategy that includes growing enrolment, new programs that will attract more students, and new future revenue from Tyndale Green. The future outlook is positive, and the initial influx of funds from Tyndale Green alleviated some immediate challenges; however, it does not alleviate our need for supporters like you.

Earlier this spring the university was facing a $1M operating shortfall.

As we were navigating this challenge God brought Psalm 50 to mind. It reads in part, “… I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine. If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it.”

This passage is a powerful message about God’s desire for heartfelt gratitude, and his provision. With Psalm 50 in mind, and the knowledge that he has provided for Tyndale for over 130 years, we knew God would provide. Even with this confidence we knew he expected us to use the gifts and talents of the Tyndale community. We got to work, reviewing and analyzing the situation, seeking clarity on a way forward.

As the leadership team was praying, working hard and deliberating on how to respond to this challenge, we received word of a significant bequest. A long-time supporter bequeathed a part of their estate to Tyndale which covered the deficit! Only God knew the timing of this, and we ended the year on-budget.

The ways in which God provides are often a beautiful mystery, revealed through trust and patient faith. At Tyndale, we witness this divine provision in the unity of our entire community – faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters – who faithfully come together to answer God’s call. Their generosity and service are tangible expressions of his grace at work, ensuring that the formation of the next generation continues with strength, purpose, and hope.

Tyndale alumni are living expressions of the university’s mission at work in the world. Across generations, their stories testify to God’s faithfulness in using graduates — like the newest ones we’ve just celebrated — to make a meaningful impact wherever he leads them. Thank you for sharing in this bold vision and for your faithful support that makes it possible.

As we live in the “in-between” we need your continued support. As you think about your charitable giving this year, I ask you to support Tyndale.

You will agree with me that Tyndale is a special place. Students receive a distinctly Christian educational experience, where they are challenged to ask and explore difficult questions, develop the ability to think analytically, while growing and integrating their theological and Biblical understanding. The world needs more Tyndale graduates!

Everyday we depend on God’s provision, and for over 130 years there are countless stories of his provision. In this communication we’ve shared how God chose to meet the shortfall in an unexpected way. At the same time, God uses each and every gift to meet the need. You are very much a part of God’s story and mission at Tyndale. Your generosity means the world to us and to our students.

Wishing you every blessing,

Kevin Kirk
Sr. Vice President, External Relations

P.S.: The summer months are the most financially difficult as we wait for Fall registrations and tuition revenue to be received. Would you consider making a gift right now? We would be so grateful. Thank you.