Reimagining post-secondary education in the Williams Lake region
Thompson Rivers University’s Board of Governors has approved the launch of a two-year planning process to reimagine post-secondary education in the Williams Lake region and TRU’s contribution to it, reaffirming the university’s enduring commitment to learners and communities in the region.
At its meeting today, the board approved administration to begin planning from 2026 to 2028, with a first report to the board in June 2026 on project scope, governance and initial scenarios. The planning will focus on identifying how post-secondary education can best meet regional needs and TRU’s continued contributions to the Williams Lake region, within its financial means.
The board also approved administration to consult with TRU’s Senate on the future of the grounds and facilities at the TRU Williams Lake campus, including potential closure. No decisions have been made at this time about facilities or land. Consultation and shared planning will inform future decisions by the board.
“TRU’s commitment to the Williams Lake region is enduring,” said TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Airini.
“I acknowledge the very best efforts of so many over the years — students, faculty, staff, donors, alumni, leaders, businesses and communities — who are passionate guardians for TRU Williams Lake. Today’s board decisions are about beginning a careful, consultative process — not making final decisions. We are launching planning, listening, and working with partners to reimagine how post-secondary education can best serve the region in sustainable ways.”
The board did not make any decisions to close programs or facilities at TRU Williams Lake. No decisions have been made about the future of programming or buildings. The focus at this stage is on planning and consultation.
TRU has historically been able to cross-subsidize its regional operations. With the significant loss of international student revenue across the sector, the university no longer has that flexibility. The planning process will therefore explore how TRU can continue to contribute to post-secondary education in the Williams Lake region within its means, while protecting students and supporting long-term sustainability.
The consultation and planning process may take up to two years, with planning expected to be completed by March 2028 at the latest. Advice from consultation will inform future decisions by the board.
Next steps
- Co-developing a consultation process and timeline with internal and external partners
- Engaging with TRU governance bodies, including senate
- Sharing further information with students, employees and community partners as planning progresses
TRU remains committed to working collaboratively with Indigenous partners, local governments, communities, employers and other post-secondary institutions to shape future models of education and training in the Williams Lake region.
Further updates will be shared as the planning and consultation process moves forward.