Introduction
The King’s University is a Christian institution of higher education located in Edmonton, Canada. It was founded in 1979 with the aim of providing students with a high-quality education based on Christian principles. Over the years, the university has grown to become a reputable institution that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about The King’s University that you probably didn’t know.
The University’s Unique Origins
The King’s University was founded by a group of Christian Reformed Church members who were interested in establishing a Christian college in western Canada. The group initially intended to establish a college in Lacombe, Alberta, but after several unsuccessful attempts, they decided to relocate to Edmonton. The university’s name was inspired by the biblical passage in Revelation 19:16, which refers to Jesus Christ as the “King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Today, the university remains committed to its Christian roots, with its mission being to provide students with a high-quality education that is grounded in Christian principles.
One interesting fact about the university’s history is that it initially started as a Bible school, offering only one-year certificate programs. It wasn’t until 1984 that the university was granted degree-granting status by the province of Alberta. Since then, the university has continued to expand its program offerings, with undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including arts, science, business, education, and music.
The University’s Commitment to Sustainability
The King’s University is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. In 2013, the university signed the Talloires Declaration, committing itself to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The university has since then implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, including installing energy-efficient lighting, implementing a composting program, and encouraging carpooling among its students and staff.
One interesting initiative implemented by the university is the installation of a solar panel system on the roof of its main building. The system, which was installed in 2019, consists of 162 solar panels and has a capacity of 50 kilowatts. The system is expected to generate over 60,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, reducing the university’s greenhouse gas emissions by over 50 tonnes per year.
The University’s Strong Focus on Music
The King’s University has a strong focus on music and is home to the King’s Music Department, which offers undergraduate degree programs in music. The department has a reputation for excellence and has produced several award-winning musicians over the years. The university also hosts several music events throughout the year, including the annual King’s Music Festival, which features performances by students, faculty, and guest artists.
One interesting fact about the music program at The King’s University is that it offers a unique program called Worship Arts. The program combines theological training with music and is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead worship in a church setting. The program is the first of its kind in Canada and has been well received by students and church leaders alike.
The University’s Strong Athletics Program
The King’s University has a strong athletics program and is a member of the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC). The university’s teams, known as the Eagles, compete in several sports, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and cross-country running. The university has a reputation for excellence in athletics and has won several ACAC championships over the years.
One interesting fact about the university’s athletics program is that it offers a unique program called the King’s Eagles Leadership Academy. The program is designed to develop the leadership skills of student-athletes and is open to all student-athletes at the university. The program includes workshops, leadership development sessions, and mentorship opportunities. The program has been successful in producing student-athletes who not only excel on the field but also in their academic and personal lives.
The University’s Strong International Presence
The King’s University has a strong international presence and is home to students from over 20 countries. The university has developed partnerships with several institutions around the world, including in China, Indonesia, and South Korea. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to study abroad and to engage in cultural exchange programs.
One interesting fact about the university’s international presence is that it offers a unique program called the English Language Institute (ELI). The program is designed to help international students improve their English language skills and to prepare them for academic study in English. The program includes intensive English language classes, cultural activities, and excursions to local attractions. The program has been successful in helping international students succeed in their academic studies at the university.
Conclusion
The King’s University is a unique institution of higher education that combines a strong commitment to Christian principles with a focus on academic excellence. The university’s history, commitment to sustainability, strong music and athletics programs, and international presence make it a fascinating institution to explore. We hope that this blog post has provided you with some fun facts about The King’s University that you didn’t know before.