Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), a prominent institution in the Evangelical community, has announced its decision to relocate from Illinois to Trinity Western University (TWU) in British Columbia, Canada. This significant move, driven by declining enrollment and financial challenges, has left many alumni reflecting on the school’s storied legacy and uncertain future.
Founded in 1897, TEDS has been a cornerstone for training ministers and shaping evangelical thought across various denominations. The decision to merge with TWU, one of Canada’s largest Christian universities, marks a pivotal moment in its history. The divinity school plans to begin classes in Canada by the fall of 2026, allowing current American students to complete their degrees online.
Eric Targe, a TEDS alumnus and pastor in Chicago, expressed his sadness over the announcement. "Chicagoland is losing one of its strongest partners in equipping Gospel ministers," he noted, emphasizing the value of in-person education. Many alumni echoed similar sentiments, reminiscing about their time at the school and the impact it had on their ministry.
The financial struggles facing TEDS are not unique. Many seminaries across the United States have experienced declining enrollment, prompting a reevaluation of traditional education models. TEDS’s enrollment numbers have dwindled significantly, with full-time enrollment dropping from 872 in the 2003-2004 academic year to just 402 in 2024-2025, according to data from the Association of Theological Schools.
Ryan Mullins, a professor and TEDS graduate, highlighted the longstanding discussions about the school’s financial viability. He recalled hearing rumors of a potential move during his time as a student, and he noted that the expensive location in Deerfield, Illinois, contributed to ongoing financial pressures. "The location of TEDS is incredibly expensive," Mullins stated, reflecting on the challenges that have plagued the institution for years.
The merger with TWU, while seen as a potential lifeline, raises questions about the future of TEDS’s Community Standards policy. Historically, TEDS has maintained strict guidelines for student conduct, including prohibitions on various behaviors. With the shifting cultural landscape in British Columbia, alumni are curious about whether these standards will remain intact after the move.
John Fea, a distinguished professor and TEDS graduate, remarked on the decline of the school and the emotional weight it carries for those who once considered it a center of evangelical thought. "I did not imagine this happening," Fea said, reflecting on his experiences at TEDS during its peak influence. The school’s closure of its Deerfield campus by 2026 is a stark reminder of the challenges facing many theological institutions.
As TEDS embarks on this new chapter, the broader implications for theological education cannot be overlooked. The trend toward online learning and hybrid models is reshaping how seminaries operate. Institutions like Liberty University and Grand Canyon University have successfully adapted to these changes, attracting large numbers of students with flexible online programs.
The decline in interest in vocational ministry among young people is a pressing concern. Targe noted that fewer students are pursuing full-time ministry, a trend that has been observed across various theological institutions. This shift calls for a renewed focus on collaboration between the local church and seminaries to encourage the next generation of leaders.
In the wake of TEDS’s announcement, many alumni are left pondering what the future holds for their beloved institution. While the merger with TWU offers a glimmer of hope, it also signifies the end of an era for TEDS as it bids farewell to its Illinois roots. As the evangelical community reflects on this transition, the call to support and nurture future leaders in ministry remains more crucial than ever.
For more insights on the evolving landscape of theological education and the future of seminaries, visit the Association of Theological Schools and explore their resources on trends in theological education.