TRU President's Circle in Heffley Creek

Last week I had the honour of representing the Real Estate Foundation at the inaugural event of the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) President's Circle, which recognizes significant donors to the university.

The afternoon was truly amazing--from the perfectly clear, warm weather (someone from Kamloops pointed out that the big orange ball in the sky was the sun, and us "wet coast" natives shouldn't be afraid!) to the location, and the program.

The location was Tod Mountain Thoroughbreds in Heffley Creek, about 30 km north of Kamloops. The ranch is set in a landscape of rolling hills covered in pasture land and forest. The owners, Ron and Rae Fawcett, built their house, gardens, and an outdoor eating area with visitors in mind. Thanks to their community-mindedness, TRU and others are benefitting from a visit to the ranch and the Fawcetts' generous hospitality.

The program included a parade of yearling horses (they will go to auction in Vancouver later this month). Although everything I know about thoroughbreds I learned on that day, even I could appreciate the beauty, strength, and energy of those horses.

It also included food. The group of about 30 people enjoyed a barbecue prepared by members of the TRU Culinary Arts team (delicious!). I came away with a couple of new salad ideas (tofu and watermelon cubes, as well as beets, blueberries, and feta), which have already inspired me at home.

Enough about the perks, though. TRU initiated the President's Circle to recognize individual and corporate donors to the university. As VP Advancement, Christopher Seguin, introduced each donor who was represented at the event, I reflected on the reasons for giving to an organization such as TRU. Many of the donors were local, and contributing to the university is an investment, not only in education, but in the quality and future of their home community and region. I am always impressed, and humbled, by people who make significant donations of their own money; working for a foundation, I am connected to granting funds that do not come out of my own personal or company pocket.

When it was my turn to receive what Christopher referred to as a "token" (framed certificate) from Roger Barnsley, TRU President, I felt honoured to be among a group of such thoughtful, generous people.

Many thanks to everyone at Thompson Rivers University and Tod Mountain Thoroughbreds for creating a memorable, enjoyable experience!