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Shane Reese: Leading a Prophetically-Directed University

Jun 12, 2024

Shane Reese, President of Brigham Young University and a proponent of a Christ-centered education, dives into his inspiring journey. He reflects on being raised by a single mother, emphasizing the values that shaped his leadership. Reese passionately discusses the importance of statistics and the blend of faith with academia. He encourages college students to embrace their potential for change and fosters a community of belonging. With insights on athletics and divine guidance, he articulates why BYU stands out in today’s educational landscape.

59:29

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Episode guests

C. Shane Reese

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Quick takeaways

Shane Reese emphasizes the critical role of divine intervention in shaping students' lives and experiences at BYU, fostering faith in individual growth.

He addresses the epidemic of homesickness among freshmen, proposing community engagement and service as effective remedies for loneliness.

Reese advocates for a culture of belonging at BYU, rooted in shared identity as children of God, to promote inclusivity and respect.

Deep dives

President Shane Reese's Background and Influence

Shane Reese, the current president of Brigham Young University, has a rich academic and personal background that shapes his leadership. Raised by a single mother, he credits her strong work ethic and respect for others as foundational elements in his life. These values are reflected in his approach to leadership at BYU, where he emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect and fostering a positive environment. Reese's professional journey includes significant roles at BYU, culminating in his presidency, which began in May 2023, highlighting his deep commitment to the institution.

Intro

2min

Lessons from a Single Mother

16min

The Passion for Statistics and Grappling with Uncertainty

3min

Balancing the Sacred and Secular: The Art of Bilingualism

5min

Faith and Academia at BYU

28min

Embracing Conviction in College

7min

Since becoming president of Brigham Young University last year, Shane Reese has often referenced a number of talks given by prophets and apostles. This is not a mistake. He has expressed determination to follow prophets, seers and revelators as he leads BYU. On this week’s episode, President Reese shares what he believes are the most pressing issues of this time and why he thinks BYU students truly have potential to change the world.

2:31- Raised By a Single Mom 7:28- The BYU Education That Almost Never Was 13:47- Advice to Homesick College Freshmen 17:33- An Unmatched Love for Statistics 20:07- Becoming Bilingual 24:44- Why Care About BYU? 32:13- Faculty in the World of Academia 38:00- Influential Talks 42:40- A Covenant Community of Belonging 46:52- Why the Investment in Athletics? 52:53- Consumed with Conviction 57:22- What Does It Mean to Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

“If we’re not unique, if we’re not different, if we don’t provide value other than just a great educational opportunity, then I can imagine that the Church could feel like they could give students scholarships to go to any other school for about the same return.”

Links:

President Reese’s previous talks at BYU: https://speeches.byu.edu/speakers/c-shane-reese/

President Kimball talk referenced: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/spencer-w-kimball/second-century-brigham-young-university/

Elder Christofferson talk referenced: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2022/10/28christofferson?lang=eng#p14

President Holland talk referenced: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/jeffrey-r-holland/banishing-all-shadows/

Andy Reid on All In: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-in/id1439975046?i=1000649868753