Campus News & Events
College appoints new head soccer coaches
Trinity Lutheran College offers students unique January Term experience
KC Wilson, Jesse Torres named to NCCAA All-Northwest Region Team
Advent concerts tell Christmas story
Trinity Athletes Enjoy a Successful Season
Trinity announces major gift to create space for worship and artistic expression
Campus News Briefs
Concert raises $3,100 for world hunger |
Trinity gifts Holden Village with historic letter |
College appoints new head soccer coaches
Trinity Lutheran College announces the appointment of new coaches to head its women’s and men’s soccer programs.
Shannon Murray has been appointed head coach for the Lady Eagles, replacing former women’s soccer coach Daniel Hicker. Murray is an experienced coach in the professional, collegiate, and youth soccer communities. As head coach of the Glacier Peak High School men’s soccer program, Murray led the team to a WIAA 3Astate championship this fall and was named state coach of the year. He also coaches the women’s soccer team at Archbishop Murphy High School and is head coach for Snohomish United Soccer Club. Murray played professional soccer for six years, including two seasons with the Seattle Sounders (A-League).
The fact that Murray is rooted in both the Everett community and the local soccer scene is exciting for Trinity.
“I grew up here in the community, I’ve become part of the community, and I’m living back here now with my family. I’m excited to be part of building a program that the community can be proud of,” Murray said. “I’m excited about getting to know the staff and the players at Trinity and helping the soccer program grow.”
George Dremousis replaces AJ Kurtz as head coach of the men’s soccer program, leading the team into their third collegiate season. Dremousis is currently head coach for the Shoreline Community College men’s soccer program, whom he led to a third place NWAACC finish in 2010. Dremousis has also coached the Seattle Sea Wolves and directed the Run to Win soccer camps in Edmonds.
Dremousis is excited about the opportunity to work with the Trinity men’s soccer program from its infancy,and he has big plans for the Eagles.
“I hope to establish a magnet school where guys want to come who are excited about both academics and playing quality competitive soccer,” Dremousis said. “I pursued this job because I was ready for a new challenge.”
With the addition of head coaches who share Trinity’s mission, the soccer program looks to continued success as their programs grow, and both teams have with their sights set on a regional win in 2012.
“I am pleased to announce that Shannon Murray and George Dremousis are joining our athletics coaching staff,” said President John Reed. “Both men bring a wealth of coaching experience, as well as a strong commitment to Trinity’s emphasis on the integration of faith, learning, and service.”
Trinity Lutheran College offers students unique January Term experience

Trinity students explore a stone circle near Grasmere. Photo by Sam Ryden.
January Term at Trinity Lutheran College isn’t your average term.
But then again, Trinity isn’t your average college either, so it’s no surprise that on top of small class sizes, professors who are scholars in their fields, a vibrant urban campus, and a diverse student population, Trinity also offers a month-long January Term that affords students the chance to focus on one subject and really delve into learning in a unique and authentic way.
This year, students at Trinity have a wide variety of local, regional and international courses to choose from, all led by accomplished Trinity professors.
One course being taught in Europe this month is “Religion in Britain” with the academic dean, Dr. Jeff Mallinson. Eight students are along on that trip, learning in classrooms that include the Chislehurst caves, Westminster Abbey, the British Museum, and Oxford University.
“We are studying the ways in which politics and changing global realities are making Britain and Europe a dynamic place, in terms of religion and ideas,” said Mallinson.
In addition to their many academic experiences, the students are also recording a documentary about perceptions of religion in Britain, having genuine conversations with people of all ages, helping to sound proof a radio station that serves British and European Lutherans, and visiting both sacred and pagan religions sites in the country.
A more regional offering is English faculty Annemarie Russell’s Creative Writing Seminar, which engages students in the writing process and also includes an overnight trip to a camp as “writers in residence” and daylong trips to Whidbey Island, Seattle, and Bellingham.
“On the day we travel to Whidbey Island, poetry is our subject of study. After a ride on the ferry and a discussion of several poems by renowned poets at a Coupeville coffee shop, students will walk quietly on a trail and observe the world around them. This silence, this experience in the world, is meant to give them subjects for their poems, help inspire creative ideas, and open their eyes to the rich and beautiful possibilities that language offers,” Russell said.
“At Trinity, we believe it’s important to push our students out of the classroom and into the world as we teach them to think, to write, and to be scholars in their respective fields,” said Russell.
In addition to international and regional courses, Trinity students can also choose to enroll in a class on campus. The focused month-long term provides an intense hands-on learning experience where students work closely with faculty in the areas of their passions and interests.
This term, 19 students are studying Communications and Leadership with Emmy Award-winning professor Doug Tolmie. The purpose of Tolmie’s course is to equip students with communication tools to facilitate leadership in a business or organization, something Tolmie believes is of paramount importance to businesses today.
“Organizations are constantly fearful of standing still and having their competitors pass them by. What do you have to put in place to make your organization move forward? I teach students tools to make that happen,” said Tolmie.
To that end, Tolmie offers his students six important tools, which include Strategic Storytelling, Making Requests, Generating Possibilities, and Taking Stage.
“These communication tools will get any group into action quickly regardless of who holds power,” said Tolmie.
Whether across the world, in another county, or in a classroom on campus, January Term is a unique part of the Trinity Lutheran College student experience, allowing a focused study in an area of interest supported by skilled faculty in an engaging learning environment.
Benefits to Trinity January Term
Trinity has such a deep commitment to cross-cultural travel and its positive impact on education that the college covers the entire cost for one January Term travel experience for each student.
On average, only 4% of college students study abroad, but at Trinity, 100% of the student body studies internationally.
The Institute for the International Education of Students recently examined 15 years of data and found the following facts about students who study abroad:
- 63% said the experience influenced their decisions to expand or change their academic majors
- 80% agreed that studying abroad had enhanced their interest in academic study
- 90% indicated that their experiences abroad had influenced all their subsequent educational experiences
- 96% of students surveyed indicated that they believe study abroad increased their self-confidence
Trinity’s commitment to rigorous academics, personalized education, and cross-cultural immersion truly make the education students receive at TRINITY one of kind. Applications for fall 2012 are currently being accepted.
For more information about January Term at Trinity Lutheran College, click here.
KC Wilson, Jesse Torres named to NCCAA All-Northwest Region Team

EVERETT, WASH.—Following a strong fall season for both men’s and women’s soccer at Trinity Lutheran College, men’s midfielder Jesse Torres and women’s goalkeeper KC Wilson have both been named to the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) All-Northwest Region Team.
Wilson, a freshman psychology major from Bothell, Wash., helped the Lady Eagles secure a position at the West Regional playoffs Nov. 10-11. According to co-captain sophomore Tanya Tarabochia, Wilson’s playing stood out to playoff fans.
“KC deserved to be named All-Northwest Region, and she had a really good season. She has the best vision on the team,” Tarabochia said.
Torres, a sophomore communications major from Pomona, Calif., was a key offensive component for the Eagles during the fall season, tallying seven goals and four assists. David Mugambira, assistant coach for Trinity men’s soccer, credits the NCCAA recognition to Torres’s leadership and demeanor on the field.
“Jesse’s a talented player. He is one of the best players I have been around and have coached. He could go on to play somewhere professionally if he took that on himself,” Mugambira said.
After two successful seasons for both the men’s and women’s teams, the Trinity soccer program continues to look to the future, including a potential regional win for both the women and the men in 2012.
Founded in 1944 as the Lutheran Bible Institute of Seattle, Trinity is a private, independent Christian college in the Lutheran tradition. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, one of six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
For more information about men’s and women’s soccer at Trinity Lutheran College, click here.
Advent concerts tell Christmas story
“Our gift to you this year is a moment of peace,” said Michael Miller, Affiliate Professor of Music & Worship, as he welcomed guests both performances of Trinity’s 2011 Advent Concert, Unexpected & Mysterious. This year’s Advent concert told the Christmas story with expectation and mystery, with peace as its focus. Each song built upon the sense of pondering the mystery and awaiting the coming of Christ.
Held Friday, December 2 at First Presbyterian Church in Everett and Sunday, December 4 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lynnwood, the concert featured the Trinity Concert Choir, Chamber Ensemble, and Worship Band. Several students vocalists gave solos, and sophomore Roger Patterson accompanied the classic Advent hymn O Come, O Come Emmanuel with a cello solo. James Mehring, a senior in the Children, Youth and Family Studies program, performed Emmanuel, a modern worship song he composed, backed by the college’s Worship Band.
The concert also featured three outstanding faculty organists, who accompanied traditional Christmas carols sung by the audience and choirs: Dr. Wanda Griffiths and Dr. Norma Aamodt-Nelson, both Affiliate Faculty in Music & Worship, and Stephen Marshall-Ward, Professor and Chair of Music & Worship. Marshall-Ward also wrote the music for Christmas Alleluia!, performed by the Chamber Ensemble. The piece included eight separate parts, one for each voice in the ensemble. In addition, the Trinity College Choir performed several of Miller’s own arrangements, including Unexpected & Mysterious, Cold December Flys Away, Gaudete and Away in the Manger.
Trinity is moving up
What do today’s students look for when considering a college? Most would say they are looking for the best possible education and the most optimal learning environment at an affordable price. With over 4,000 colleges and universities to choose from, a student has plenty of options. National organizations attempt to help students in their comparisons by ranking colleges. When interpreting college rankings, students should carefully consider the criteria used.
During the past year, Trinity has been working to implement a strategic plan that emphasizes student success, an innovative curriculum and outcomes for our graduates. And our efforts toward these positive changes now appear successful. According to stateuniversity.com, Trinity Lutheran College now ranks third best in overall quality in the state of Washington, up 16%. While rankings don't give a complete picture of a college, they function as a helpful tool for students when making comparisons.
And even beyond rankings, potential students should make an effort to learn about a college’s community of people as well as the place where they would live and learn. Click here to see what some current students are saying about the community and location of Trinity Lutheran College.
Top Ranked Universities in Washington - Highest Overall School Score
| Rank in Washington | Overall School Score | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
2011 |
2010 |
School Name |
2011 |
2010 |
1 ↑ |
2 |
95.88 |
95.56 (↑0.3%) |
|
2 ↓ |
1 |
95.48 |
95.89 (↓0.4%) |
|
3 ↑ |
13 |
94.02 |
81.10 (↑15.9%) |
|
4 ↓ |
3 |
93.92 |
93.47 (↑0.5%) |
|
5 |
5 |
93.13 |
92.21 (↑1.0%) |
|
6 ↑ |
7 |
92.29 |
91.41 (↑1.0%) |
|
7 ↓ |
4 |
91.92 |
92.60 (↓0.7%) |
|
8 |
8 |
90.01 |
90.21 (↓0.2%) |
|
9 |
9 |
89.54 |
89.24 (↑0.3%) |
|
10 ↓ |
6 |
89 |
|
|
Read more: College Rankings - Top Ranked Universities in Washington
Trinity Athletes Enjoy a Successful Season
Trinity’s emerging athletic program showed once again that a small college can do big things.
In its second year, Trinity’s athletic programs are experiencing amazing success. Both the men’s and women’s soccer squads and a cross country runner qualified for post season competition with the National Christian College Athletic Association. In the process, Trinity athletes recorded victories against institutions like Saint Martin’s, George Fox, Whitman, Northwest, and Western Washington universities. Of utmost importance to the college is how this reflects the momentum and character of the college in general.
"I couldn’t be more pleased for our student athletes," said President John Reed. "They’ve achieved a stunning level of success, and so soon! I’m equally pleased with their competitiveness on the field and their contribution to our community through lives of service, which is a hallmark of who we are as a college."
The success of the athletic program is part of the exciting forward momentum the college has experienced over the last few years in its new location in Everett, WA. “People are starting to notice the quality of our education, mentoring, and student experience,” said Academic Dean, Dr. Jeff Mallinson, “and that affects the scholarly climate on culture too. We’ve been saying that ‘small is the new big’ and we are glad that others are noticing how true this is. Professors have noticed the rich contributions our athletes bring to the classroom.”
Trinity’s athletics programs invite community support. Those who wish to help fund the college’s mission and the aspirations of athletes who work hard to balance scholarship, service, and life of faith, can make a tax-deductible contribution to support travel costs.
A Trinity education now includes study abroad
Trinity Lutheran College recently unveiled its new approach to cross-cultural learning. The month-long January Term between fall and spring semesters has always provided students with the opportunity for intensive study on a single topic of interest.
Students are required to take at least one January Term session. Courses are offered both on campus and as travel courses. Students have studied church architecture in Italy, early childhood education in Scotland, social justice in Mexico, global missions in Peru, classical communications in Greece, and nutrition in India. Now, these extraordinary opportunities to travel and learn are included with no out of pocket expense to the student.
Trinity has such a deep commitment to cross-cultural travel and its positive impact on education that the entire cost for one January Term travel experience is covered by the college. On average, only 4% of college students study abroad, but at Trinity 100% of the student body studies internationally.
In recent studies, the Institute for the International Education of Students examined 15 years of data and found the following amazing facts about students who study abroad:
- 63% said the experience influenced their decisions to expand or change their academic majors
- 80% agreed that studying abroad had enhanced their interest in academic study
- 90% indicated that their experiences abroad had influenced all their subsequent educational experiences
- Finally, 96% of students surveyed indicated that they believe study abroad increased their self-confidence!
Trinity’s commitment to rigorous academics, personalized education, and to cross cultural immersion make the education you receive one of a kind.
Applications for fall 2012 are currently being accepted. Click here to apply.
Click here to learn more about January Term travel opportunities.
Trinity announces major gift to create space for worship and artistic expression
Trinity Lutheran College has received a pledge for the third-largest gift in its 67-year history. George and Jackie Brammer, farmers and residents of north central Idaho, will contribute $700,000 to a two-year project that will ultimately redevelop the Campus Center’s top floor into a center for worship and art.
The chapel will be named for George’s parents, the late Otto and Goldia Brammer, who exemplified lives of service to the church and its outreach. The college renovated its Campus Center in 2008, but left the fifth floor open to potential tenants. Recent enrollment growth has made the extra space important for the college’s educational and community activities.
The gift follows a strategic planning process led by Trinity’s new president, John Reed, that emphasizes the importance of helping students develop skills in both digital technology and spiritual formation. “I’m thrilled that the Brammer name is connected to this initiative, since their story serves as a model for our students,” Reed said. “Here are two people who have been successful in life and remain deeply committed to the spiritual and vocational development of students who will be leaders for future generations.” President Reed said he continues to be actively cultivating resources for additional initiatives outlined in the strategic plan.
The project will serve as a tangible expression of Trinity’s interest in modeling ways of integrating visual art, music, and worship. The chapel design will have worship space at its center, extending out into areas for student creativity, whether through composition, painting, or graphic design.
“Young Christians today care about spoken and written ideas, but they increasingly resonate with expression of faith through art, symbol and sound,” said the Rev Erik Samuelson, campus pastor. “It is great to be a part of a college that can use its small size and commitment to innovation to make a big difference in the way we think of worship and art as a community.”
Click here to learn more about the Brammer Chapel.
Upcoming Events
2012 Trinity Scholarship Challenge
Monday, February 20, 2012
Trinity Lutheran College, 2802 Wetmore Ave., Everett
The 2012 Trinity Scholarship Challenge is an opportunity for Snohomish and Pierce County students to compete for 30 scholarships. Click here to learn more or reserve your spot in the challenge.
Trinity Lutheran College Playfest 2012 presents
How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
March 16-18, 23-25, 30-31 and April 1
Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
Historic Everett Theatre,
2911 Colby Avenue, Everett
Come enjoy the collaborative efforts of Trinity Lutheran College and the Northwest Savoyards Musical Theater Society in this hilarious comedy about the triumph of the common man who moves up the corporate ladder. Tickets are $22 for adults and $19 for seniors/children/military and can be purchased online at www.EverettTheatre.org or by calling 425.258.6766.
Understanding Islam:
Breaking Down Walls & Building Bridges
Sat., April 14, 2012 from
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Trinity Lutheran College, 2802 Wetmore Ave., Everett
Join featured keynote speakers Carl Medearis, an author and international expert
in the field of Arab-American and Muslim-Christian relations,
and Dr. Warren Larson, Director of the Samuel Zwemer
Center of Muslim Studies
at Columbia International University, as they present a biblical response to the rise of global Islam. Sponsored by the Verne Lavik Endowment for Cross-Cultural Evangelism. Learn more.
Celebration of Service Event and Concert
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Trinity Lutheran Church, 6215 196th St SW, Lynnwood
This gala evening recognizes and celebrates Trinity’s mission, vision, and values by honoring people who exemplify the Christian commitment to issues of social justice, spirituality and have modeled service in their post-graduate lives.

