BYU Speeches

Catherine Ruth Pakaluk, a faculty member at the Busch School of Business and founder of the Political Economy area, explores profound societal shifts regarding family and faith. She discusses the decline in birth rates as a symptom of lost purpose and the need to view children as blessings rather than mere biological occurrences. Pakaluk critiques current pro-family policies, examines the impact of technology on family structure, and emphasizes how faith can rekindle the intrinsic value of having children, potentially reviving family formation.

Michael L. Roberts, Managing Director of BYU Alumni and External Relations, shares profound insights from his experiences in education and faith. He emphasizes the role of divine love stemming from community, highlighting the influence of family and mentors in his life. Roberts recounts his son's challenges, illustrating how they taught him about God's love. He discusses the sacred nature of education, viewing it as a pathway to serve and align with divine purposes, urging listeners to reflect on their unique journeys at BYU.

Jane Clayson Johnson, an Emmy Award-winning journalist, passionately discusses the transformative power of BYU Pathway Worldwide in Africa. She shares inspiring student stories, including a mother balancing work and studies, and a survivor finding hope through education. Johnson highlights Pathway's affordable degrees and the impact of service missionaries in helping students succeed. With innovation and divine inspiration at its core, Pathway aims to break generational poverty and strengthen global communities, inviting everyone to join this remarkable journey.

In this enlightening talk, Ronald A. Rasband, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explores the divine origin of the family and its critical role in our happiness. He addresses the need for compassion in troubled times and shares a personal revelation from dedicating the Bangkok Thailand Temple. Rasband highlights the history of the Family Proclamation and stresses the importance of covenants and Christ’s Atonement for healing. He ultimately emphasizes that true happiness stems from Christ-centered families, reinforcing the value of individual worth and divine purpose.

C. Shane Reese, President of Brigham Young University, explores the transformative power of giving in challenging times. He emphasizes Christ as the ultimate gift of light, guiding listeners to choose love over contention. Reese shares insightful parables about gift-giving and personal anecdotes, illustrating how even small gestures can create profound connections. He encourages everyone to cultivate generosity and become beacons of light in their communities, fostering hope and peace through acts of kindness.

Wendy W. Reese, wife of BYU President C. Shane Reese, discusses the importance of becoming true students of BYU, emphasizing a heritage rooted in faith and discipleship. She highlights the three pillars of student life: service, study, and discipleship through Christ. Wendy honors influential women who shaped BYU, like Martha Jane Knowlton Coray and Alice Louise Reynolds, whose dedication continues to inspire. She calls on current students to embrace their covenants and shine as disciples, enriching their BYU experience.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Justin Collings, BYU's Academic Vice President, emphasizes Joseph Smith's integral role in merging education with spirituality. He explores the profound significance of learning and faith, encouraging educators to inspire students' spiritual convictions. Collings highlights the importance of unity and kindness within the college community, inspiring listeners to cultivate meaningful relationships that foster personal growth. This engaging talk reminds us of the transformative power of knowledge anchored in faith.

Clark G. Gilbert, Commissioner of Education and a General Authority Seventy, passionately discusses BYU's divine mission. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity while pursuing academic excellence. Gilbert highlights the transformative journeys of students, noting a rise in faith and commitment to gospel principles. He calls for nurturing love and community support to prepare students spiritually for the Lord's return. His insights inspire a deliberate approach to education, grounding it in prophetic guidance amidst a changing social landscape.

Gerrit W. Gong, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares profound insights on the interplay between wisdom and faith. He addresses the importance of divine guidance over human folly, discussing the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in spiritual contexts. Gong emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus Christ's Atonement and encourages personal repentance. The talk invites listeners to embody Christ's grace while navigating the evolving landscape of technology and faith.

Amy T. Jex, an associate teaching professor in the BYU Department of Dance, shares profound insights on trusting in God's love and guidance. She discusses the significance of agency and repentance, urging listeners to embrace divine help in their choices. Using a zipline metaphor, she illustrates the importance of faith amidst life's uncertainties. A touching story of a dancer helping deaf attendees at a Temple Open House highlights the beauty of service and divine timing. Ultimately, Jex encourages a deeper trust in God's plan for our personal journeys.