On Saturday, the Tyndale community gathered to celebrate Homecoming 2021 and the start of another academic year. More than 400 people watched the Livestream, and many actively participated in the chatroom.
Here are a few comments from attendees:
Kevin Kirk, SVP, External Relations, warmly greeted the community and expressed his gratitude for the shared experience of community, no matter where viewers were watching from.
“Tyndale alumni are engaged and making a difference literally around the world, and following last year's Homecoming at Home, the feedback was overwhelming,” said Kevin. “Many who live abroad or who are unable to travel were able to participate in Homecoming and in class reunions. For many, it was the first time they were able to [attend]. We envision future Homecomings with a physical presence on campus for those who are able as well as continuing to use technology to involve those who can't.”
The Tyndale Singers then sang Glory to Glory, in a powerful and uplifting worship video.
Next, Dr. Marjory Kerr, Tyndale’s President and Vice Chancellor, shared a message that pointed to the university’s past, present and future.
“We celebrate and give thanks to the Lord for 127 years of continuous Christian higher education – through different names, different configurations and different locations,” she said. Dr. Kerr spoke about connecting with graduates of 1945-1950 and hearing about their various ministries. “These are foundations of service that our alumni continue to build upon, testifying to the faithfulness of God, the blessing of service, and the joy of knowing the Lord at the opposite end of the continuum.”
She welcomed the 314 new alumni from the class of 2021 to the community and encouraged all to build relationships across alumni classes.
Dr. Kerr then shared plans for the upcoming year and provided details on Tyndale's strategic plans and priorities, reiterating the importance of the university's mission statement:
“Tyndale is dedicated to the pursuit of truth, to excellence in teaching, learning and research, for the enriching of mind, heart and character, to serve the church and the world for the glory of God.”
Homecoming 2021 included a special 50th anniversary celebration of the 1971 Ontario Bible College graduates, in a video tribute.
Tuuli Hannula, Director, External Relations, then introduced the 2021 Distinguished Alumni. Videos of each honouree provided viewers with encouragement and inspiration of God's faithfulness.
The 2021 Distinguished Alumni are:
Horizon Award (Undergraduate Studies)
Horizon Award (Graduate Studies)
Photo by Katie Cooper
Community Impact Award
National Impact Award
Global Impact Award
Lifetime Impact Award
After the event, alumni participated in Zoom reunions and an introduction of Alumni chapters. We look forward to connecting with and celebrating the Tyndale community for many years to come!