Faith Through Generations



 


Walking into the Legacy Lunch at LeTourneau University feels like stepping into both the past and the future. Alumni parents attend with their soon-to-be college students, swapping memories of their own campus days while looking ahead to the journeys their children are about to begin. The buildings and spaces may look different than they once did, but the heartbeat of LETU—rooted in faith and a Christ-centered community—remains unchanged.

Since LeTourneau’s genesis, founder R.G. LeTourneau made Christ the number one priority of the university which reflected the priorities in his own life. That same commitment continues to resonate across campus today, even as the landscape and facilities evolve with each generation. “Physically, it’s changed a lot, but it hasn't changed or regressed in its spiritual emphasis. Matter of fact, I think it's stronger today maybe than it's ever been. And it's a place that's true to its founding heritage of integrating faith and learning, and we’re really excited about that,” Dan DiFrancesco (1982 Chemical Engineering Graduate, LETU Board Member) shared, reflecting the sentiment felt by many during the Legacy Lunch.


 

That enduring commitment to faith is not only remembered by alumni—it’s also embraced by the next generation. For many students, attending LeTourneau is about more than academics; it’s about stepping into a legacy that blends knowledge with Christian living. “I want to carry on the continuation of my dad and his legacy here and also have a good Christian experience for myself. My hope is that I learn academically and how to do things in a Christian manner that share the word after I leave,” Josiah Gilbert (Professional Flight student) says, capturing the heart of what the Legacy Lunch is all about: passing on both tradition and values. “I’m excited to receive quality education just as my father did, meet great friends, and jump start my career. I saw the impact that LeTourneau had on my father while he was a student and I want to continue that legacy and represent Jesus Christ, especially and I become an adult and have my own family and career.” (Jadon Mammen, Pro-Flight Student)


The Legacy Lunch was more than a meal—it was a reminder that LeTourneau’s mission is carried on through both memory and vision. Each story shared by alumni was met with the hope and anticipation of students preparing to write their own chapter. “I want to build on the legacy by drawing other people to LeTourneau from all over. My family and I come from Alaska, and we know people from Zambia, Korea, Russia, and other places. I’m excited to start my journey at LeTourneau and hope I can encourage others to come,” one student expressed. Just as R.G. LeTourneau envisioned, the commitment to Christ and to serving the world through faith and learning continues to unite generations, ensuring the legacy not only lives on—but grows stronger.