Calvin B. Hanson

Dr. Calvin B. Hanson (1925–2013) was the founding President of Trinity Western University (1962–1974), leading its growth from 17 to 375 students and establishing its Christian liberal arts identity. After stepping down, he served as Director of Internship and Field Education at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (1978–1995), teaching Practical Theology. He held degrees including a B.A. from Augsburg College, an M.A. from the University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Letters (1968). He received an honorary Doctor of Humanities from TWU (1992) and became President Emeritus in 2006. His legacy includes the Hanson Chapel on campus, named in his honor, and his influential book On the Raw Edge of Faith (1977).

Education: B.A., Augsburg College; M.A., University of Minnesota; Ph.D. studies interrupted to serve as TWU’s founding president; honorary Doctor of Humanities (TWU, 1992).

Research emphasized faith integration in education, Christian leadership, and the role of spirituality in academia. His leadership shaped TWU’s mission to blend biblical insights with academic disciplines. He advocated principles like ‘If Jesus Christ is Lord, nothing is secular,’ influencing generations of students and faculty.

Awards include TWU’s highest honor (President Emeritus title) and the naming of the Hanson Garden Chapel, symbolizing his enduring impact. His writings and speeches remain foundational to TWU’s ethos.