BYU Speeches

Takashi Wada, a General Authority Seventy, shares insights from his transformative devotional address. He emphasizes that the Book of Mormon serves as a vital guide for our lives today. By examining Nephi's journey, Wada highlights themes of personal sacrifice, faith, and the vital importance of charity. He encourages listeners to embrace these ancient teachings, illustrating how they can cultivate Christ-like attributes in their own lives. Wada's engaging exploration reminds us all of the profound spiritual growth that comes from striving for charity.

Shima Baughman, a Woodruff J. Deem Professor of Law at BYU and a Distinguished Fellow at the Wheatley Institute, shares profound insights on devotion and spiritual growth. She reflects on her own experiences at BYU, emphasizing the importance of community and compassion. The discussion delves into the heart's role in faith, sacrificial love, and the transformative power of deep connections, including a poignant mentorship with a refugee mother. Baughman encourages listeners to cherish their divine worth and commit wholeheartedly to Christ.

David French, a columnist for the New York Times and bestselling author, shares insights on the polarization plaguing America. He emphasizes the urgent need for kindness and understanding to bridge divides. With personal anecdotes from his time as a reservist in Iraq, he illustrates how friendships can bloom in unexpected places, overcoming differences. French advocates for reaching out in love, inspired by teachings of Jesus, encouraging listeners to combat loneliness and hatred with empathy and compassion.

In this engaging talk, Patrick Kearon, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, discusses the joy of new beginnings, particularly for students starting their academic journey. He emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset and personal growth while embracing challenges as opportunities for transformation. Kearon highlights the power of kindness, explaining how small acts can significantly impact spiritual and personal development. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to embrace their true identities and cultivate joy through love and service.

In this engaging talk, Jennifer Kearon, a devoted speaker and wife of Elder Patrick Kearon, shares her insights on embracing life's unpredictable surprises. She reflects on how unexpected events can lead to personal growth and adaptability, urging listeners to trust in God's plan. Kearon highlights the transformative power of faith, demonstrating how challenges can turn into blessings through commitment and prayer. Her uplifting message encourages all to embrace uncertainty with hope and resilience.

Wendy W. Reese, wife of BYU president C. Shane Reese, shares insights on cultivating positivity in life. She emphasizes the intentional pursuit of positivity and its healing effects on mental and physical health. Wendy recounts a family's resilience during a loved one's brain surgery, illustrating the strength found through faith. She highlights how gratitude and a positive mindset can transform personal well-being and one’s environment. Finally, she advocates for daily practices like prayer to foster connection with the divine and enhance happiness.

C. Shane Reese, the president of Brigham Young University, shares insights from his own journey of growth and resilience. He discusses how a personal vision and persistent effort are crucial in the transformative process of 'becoming.' The conversation emphasizes the significance of mentorship and spiritual guidance in shaping one’s identity. Reese also highlights the role of covenants and temple worship in personal development, urging listeners to embrace divine guidance and uplift one another in their pursuits.

Justin Collings, the academic vice president of BYU, discusses the university's vision as a Christ-centered institution. He emphasizes integrating the restored gospel into teaching, aiming to prepare students as lifelong disciples. Collings explores the relationship between academic integrity and faith, advocating for a holistic curriculum. Highlighting BYU's prophetic destiny, he encourages active participation in spiritual education and turning to Christ for salvation, aligning academic pursuits with divine work.

C. Shane Reese, president of Brigham Young University, shares insightful ideas on building positive momentum in education and life. He emphasizes aligning personal desires with divine will to foster spiritual growth. Reese discusses the pivotal role of statistics in detecting change, and offers real examples like water levels and athletic comebacks. He highlights the university's commitment to integrating spiritual and academic excellence, showcasing how new initiatives are designed to enhance student engagement and graduation rates. It's an inspiring conversation about forging paths forward.

Ronald A. Rasband, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares insights on the unique mission of Brigham Young University as a Christ-centered institution. He highlights the importance of prophetic guidance in higher education, emphasizing how it serves as a strategic asset for the university. Key initiatives like the UNIV 101 course aim to enhance student success and foster spiritual growth, showcasing how prophetic governance can transform the university experience.