LeTourneau University Development

One of the many ways LeTourneau University has grown through the years is through the generosity of partners who believed in preparing students for meaningful work.

In this photo, Rich's Machinery Company of Longview donated a 52-inch King vertical boring mill to the university's Machine Tool Lab in 1980, giving students access to industry-grade equipment and valuable hands-on experience.

That investment reflected a belief that still defines LeTourneau today: students learn best by doing.

Generations later, the technology has advanced, but the mission remains the same. Gifts from alumni, friends, and industry partners continue to equip students with the tools, experiences, and Christ-centered education they need to make a lasting impact in their professions and communities.

Thank you to everyone who has invested—and continues to invest—in the next generation of LeTourneau students.

THEN
In 1946, an electron microscope capable of 100,000× magnification represented the forefront of engineering research. Laboratories like these pushed the boundaries of technology and helped shape the next generation of engineering innovation.

NOW
Today's LeTourneau students learn with robotics, additive manufacturing, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing equipment, and cutting-edge engineering laboratories.

While the technology has changed dramatically, our mission has not. LeTourneau continues to prepare engineers and innovators through hands-on learning, Christ-centered education, and a commitment to solving real-world problems that make a lasting impact.

Innovation changes. Purpose remains.

Exciting progress continues on the Tyler Hall West renovation as another important campus improvement moves closer to completion.

Construction crews have completed approximately 90% of the interior painting and flooring, and new plumbing fixtures have been installed. Over the next few weeks, work will focus on completing interior finishes, installing appliances, final cleaning, exterior paint and handrails, and preparing the building for substantial completion.

Projects like Tyler Hall West reflect the ongoing investment being made through Build with Purpose—creating spaces that better serve students, strengthen campus life, and prepare future generations of YellowJackets to live out Christ-centered vocations.

Thank you for partnering with us as we continue building a campus where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
https://www.letu.edu/development/campaign-splash.html

Student Spotlight | Ryker Gorrell

For aviation student Ryker, receiving the Legacy Scholar Endowed Scholarship has meant more than financial assistance—it has given him the opportunity to pursue his vocational calling with confidence while experiencing a community that continually points him to Christ.

One moment, in particular, has stayed with him.

Preparing for an Aviation Technical Concepts exam, Ryker found himself focused on the test ahead. Before class began, however, his professor paused and invited the entire class to pray together.

"Praying, unfortunately, didn't cross my mind in that moment, but then the professor had us stop before going into the room, and he had us all pray together, which filled me with joy."

Ryker says moments like these remind him that LeTourneau is more than a place to earn a degree—it's a community that encourages students to keep Christ at the center of every part of life.

He also recognizes the role donor generosity plays in that experience.

"Awards like these are like another reminder of God's goodness, and something to keep us from worrying."

Thank you to the faithful supporters whose generosity helps students like Ryker gain the education and LETU experience God has placed before them.

Engineering excellence has always been part of the LeTourneau story.

In 1991, LeTourneau Engineering students Pete Nystrom and Chuck Cox earned first place in the regional IEEE student design competition, competing against teams from universities across Texas and beyond. (Photo from 1991 NOW magazine.)

Their challenge? Design and build a prototype controller to meet strict engineering specifications—all while balancing classes and countless hours in the lab.

Reflecting on the experience, the team shared that LeTourneau's hands-on approach made the difference:

"We learned that LeTourneau has trained us well, and we learned how to work together."

Their first-place finish qualified them for the IEEE Region 5 competition, where they represented LeTourneau among some of the region's top engineering programs.

More than three decades later, the same commitment to hands-on learning, innovation, and Christ-centered education continues to prepare YellowJackets to solve real-world problems and make an impact around the globe.

💛 Do you remember engineering projects that challenged—or inspired—you during your time at LeTourneau? Share your memories below!

THEN:
In December 1982, LeTourneau College announced the restoration of the campus chapel for permanent use. Originally built as part of the World War II-era Harmon General Hospital, the humble chapel had already become a meaningful gathering place for Bible studies, prayer meetings, worship rehearsals, classes, and even weddings.

The restoration project ensured that this historic building would continue serving generations of students for years to come. As said then, the chapel was destined to become a "little jewel" on campus.

NOW:
Today, known as Speer Chapel, it remains one of the spiritual hearts of LeTourneau University—a place where students gather for worship, prayer, weddings, memorial services, and moments of quiet reflection. For countless YellowJackets, it has been the setting for some of life's most significant moments.

As we celebrate 80 years of LeTourneau University, it's a reminder that while our campus continues to grow, some of its most treasured places continue pointing generations of students to the same unchanging foundation.

‼️ Do you have a favorite memory from Speer Chapel? We'd love to hear it in the comments.

There are many meaningful ways to invest in the future of LeTourneau University, and one of the most enduring is through planned giving.

A planned gift allows supporters to thoughtfully include LeTourneau University in their long-term financial or estate plans, creating a lasting legacy that will continue to impact students for generations to come. Whether through a bequest, beneficiary designation, charitable trust, or another giving vehicle, planned giving offers flexible options that can reflect each individual's unique goals and circumstances.

Every planned gift is more than a future contribution—it is a lasting investment in LETU's Christ-centered education. These gifts help strengthen scholarships, academic programs, faculty excellence, and our institution's mission for years to come.

If you've ever considered how your legacy can continue to shape future generations, we'd love to help you explore the possibilities. Learn more about planned giving and the many ways you can create a lasting impact at LeTourneau University.
https://letufoundation.org/legacy

You can schedule a time with the Foundation President during Homecoming Weekend to learn more about this opportunity! Registration opens soon!

Project Update | Christian Polytechnic University Center

The vision is becoming reality.

Excavation is now underway for the Christian Polytechnic University Center (CPUC)—the first major step in bringing this transformational project to life.

As construction begins, we're reminded that every great building starts with a strong foundation. The CPUC will become a hub for collaboration, innovation, and hands-on learning, strategically connecting the School of Engineering, School of Business, and Department of Computer Science while preparing students to serve Christ through their professions.

This is more than the beginning of a construction project—it's the beginning of a space that will shape future generations of Christian leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.

Thank you to the faithful partners whose generosity is helping build the future of The Christian Polytechnic University.

Student Spotlight: Joanna Muraleetharan

Joanna, an international student studying Aviation Maintenance with a concentration in Professional Flight, shared how receiving the LeTourneau Aviation Alumni Association Scholarship Endowment has impacted her journey:

"This scholarship comes as a great encouragement. It significantly eases my financial burden and allows me to focus wholeheartedly on my training and academic goals. Flying has been my lifelong dream, and your support brings me one step closer to achieving it."

Because of the generosity of faithful donors, students like Joanna are able to devote themselves to learning, preparing for their professions, and pursuing the purpose God has called them to.

Thank you for investing in students whose lives—and future impact—are being shaped through LeTourneau University.