బి.వై.యు డాలిన్ హెచ్. ఓక్స్
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On a memorable night recognizing the achievements of influential BYU figures, President Dallin H. Oaks was honored with the prestigious "Pillar of the Valley" award , presented by the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce
The event, held on April 14 of this year at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo , brought together more than 700 attendees and celebrated not only the legacy, but also the collective impact of Brigham Young University's presidents throughout its history.
A tribute to a life of influence
“I am honored to be among those we are honoring today. It is a distinguished group and a worthy cause,” President Oaks said during the evening.This recognition was not entirely individual, but rather highlighted the BYU presidency as an institution , acknowledging the role its leaders have played in the educational, spiritual, and social development of the youth of the Utah Valley for more than a century .
The “Pilar del Valle” award has been given in previous years to influential figures in the community , but on this occasion it had a special meaning as it also commemorated the 150th anniversary of Brigham Young University
A legacy that transcends generations
In addition to President Oaks, the ceremony also paid tribute to other more recent BYU presidents who have left a deep mark on the lives of thousands of students . Among them are:
- Jeffrey R. Holland president of BYU from 1980 to 1989.
- Rex E. Lee president of BYU from 1989 to 1995.
- Merrill J. Bateman president of BYU from 1996 to 2003.
- Cecil O. Samuelson president of BYU from 2003 to 2014.
- Kevin J Worthen BYU president from 2014 to 2023.
- Shane Reese (current president of BYU).
he current university president, Shane Reese , spoke on behalf of all past BYU presidents and highlighted President Oaks' role in the institution's growth. Among President Oaks' most notable contributions to BYU is the founding of the BYU Law School now considered one of the best in the country .
A unique connection with BYU and its community
One of the most striking aspects highlighted during President Shane Reese's speech was President Oaks' personal connection to BYU, as he not only served as its president but also lived through different periods there , including
- BYU student.
- Student leader in his youth
- Resident of Provo during his formative years.
- And currently chairman of the board of trustees of BYU.
"To my knowledge, [President Oaks] is the only BYU president who [has lived through all those stages]," President Reese noted. This trajectory reinforces the idea that President Oaks' influence at BYU has not only been administrative , but also personal and generational.
A symbolic moment that moved everyone
Although the main focus of the event was the recognition of these BYU presidents, one of the most memorable moments of the night was starring Cosmo, the BYU mascot .
In a symbolic and emotional gesture Cosmo approached President Oaks , placed his hands on his shoulders, bowed in a gesture of reverence, and pretended to "give" him his head , as a sign of honor and respect toward the now President of the Church of Jesus Christ.
That moment was very special, as President Oaks himself dressed up as Cosmo during his time as president of BYU in 1979. Now, after several years, President Oaks' reunion with the current Cosmos was a moment that brought back several memories of his history at BYU and also caused smiles and applause among the attendees.
This evening also included artistic performances, such as the performance of "I'm Still Standing" by Brigham Young University's "Young Ambassadors" singing and dancing group , as well as a commemorative video that reviewed BYU's history and impact . Throughout the event, the university's motto was also constantly highlighted : "Enter to learn, leave to serve." This served as a reminder that education at BYU not only seeks academic development, but also spiritual formation and service to others .
More than an award
The "Pillar of the Valley" award not only recognizes past achievements, but also highlights a continuous mission to develop people who positively influence the world, and that is why President Oaks was recognized, because his service not only had an impact on the youth of that time but continues to be relevant. More than an awards ceremony, the night of the event was a reminder that leadership based on faith, education, and service can leave a lasting mark And amidst awards, speeches, and tributes, it became clear that the true legacy lies not in the titles but in the generations that carry on thanks to the impact we leave in the present
Source: Deseret News
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