BYU Speeches

Kalani Sitake, head football coach at BYU, shares his inspiring journey from Tonga to coaching, emphasizing God's plan amid adversity. He recounts a touching moment when a hug from a favorite athlete offered healing during tough times. Sitake discusses how dreams can shift, like when an injury ended his football aspirations, yet faith and resilience enabled him to find purpose. He encourages listeners to embrace divine guidance and community support, reminding us that even small gestures can have a profound impact on our lives.

Michael A. Dunn, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares profound insights on the concept of being 'fools for Christ.' He humorously encourages embracing one's own foolishness to pursue seemingly impossible dreams. Reflecting on Don Quixote, Dunn highlights the beauty of idealism against societal skepticism. He draws inspiration from the journeys of trailblazers like Martha Hughes Cannon and Steve Young, emphasizing unwavering faith amid doubt and the importance of prioritizing meaningful pursuits over superficial distractions.

In this insightful discussion, Yuval Levin, editor of National Affairs and a leading voice at the American Enterprise Institute, emphasizes the crucial role of institutions in shaping our social fabric. He argues that institutions should be formative rather than performative, pointing to the need for a cultural shift towards idealism and community engagement. Levin also addresses the alarming decline of trust in these entities and calls for a renewed focus on personal responsibility to combat societal divisions and restore civic harmony.

Ricardo P. Giménez, a General Authority Seventy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares his transformative journey from rejection to purpose. He emphasizes understanding the 'why' behind worship, advocating for genuine connections with the Savior. Giménez discusses the significance of covenant relationships in a confusing world and invites reflection on personal motivations for faith. He encourages listeners to awaken their faith, embrace divine love, and deepen their spiritual engagements, all rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Kevin R. Duncan, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares his inspiring journey through challenges as a BYU student and as a single parent. He emphasizes how faith in Jesus Christ has been a source of strength during life's trials, illustrating the transformative power of love and hope. His reflections highlight the significance of staying connected to divine guidance amidst feelings of isolation, reassuring listeners that Jesus Christ is always the answer to their struggles.

Join Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, as he unveils the deep connection between happiness, virtue, and personal responsibility shaped by the philosophies of Jefferson and Franklin. He emphasizes prioritizing long-term virtue over fleeting gratification, offering practical advice for self-mastery. Delving into the principles of self-governance, Rosen highlights how moral integrity and constitutional understanding are essential for a thriving society, inspiring a thoughtful exploration of what it truly means to pursue happiness.

In this engaging conversation, Gary E. Stevenson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, passionately discusses the importance of waving flags of discipleship. He connects symbols of unity to the principles of peacemaking and understanding within the Church. Stevenson shares insights on cultivating deeper understanding and the power of active listening in building community. He emphasizes the role of disciples in promoting peace and restoration, inspiring listeners to express authentic love and service to others.

C. Shane Reese, President of Brigham Young University, shares insights on overcoming challenges through faith. He reflects on his own underdog journey, emphasizing resilience and divine support. The discussion highlights unlikely victories, such as the BYU football team's successes, as examples of faith in action. Reese inspires listeners to become miracles for others, illustrating the transformative power of kindness with stories from the BYU community. He encourages embracing service and faith to create a positive impact.

Wendy Reese, wife of BYU President C. Shane Reese, shares her insights on the vital role of connections in our lives. She reflects on how personal experiences and evolving communication shape our relationships. Wendy emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions, nurturing social capital, and the transformative power of covenants with Jesus Christ. She inspires listeners to cherish sacred moments and highlights how these divine connections foster both personal growth and community strength.

J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor in the Relief Society general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares insights on finding peace during life's uncertainties. She emphasizes how covenant relationships with God bring solace amidst chaos. From her transformation into a confident speaker to the tale of missionaries in Ecuador preparing for an earthquake, she highlights the miraculous outcomes of faith and divine guidance. Ultimately, J. Anette encourages listeners to embrace their spiritual heritage and strengthen their trust in Jesus Christ.