- BYU's leadership and impact were celebrated at the Utah Valley Chamber Gala.
- The event honored past and present BYU presidents for their contributions.
- BYU's influence on Utah County's economy and community growth was highlighted.
PROVO — The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce honored several of Brigham Young University presidents — both past and present — during the annual Pillar of the Valley Gala, as the community celebrates the 150th anniversary of the school's founding.
This year's ceremony recognized the presidents of BYU for their collective leadership, influence, and lasting impact on Utah County's economic strength, workforce development and community growth.
"They are individuals who lifted others, strengthened our university and shaped this community in enduring ways," said current BYU President C. Shane Reese. "I've been blessed to know each of them and to learn from each of them."
President Dallin H. Oaks, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, attended as one of those honored at the gala. President Oaks served a decade as the university's president, from 1971 to 1980.
President Oaks did not take the stage during the ceremony, but his presence was felt in the building.
"His presence tonight was meaningful," said Curtis Blair, president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber. "And more than just having all seven presidents represented here for the last 55 years ... his presence signaled how meaningful Brigham Young University has been in his life."
The Pillar of the Valley Award Gala was created in 2011 to acknowledge an influential individual or individuals who have made significant contributions to the business, civic, social, educational and cultural climate of Utah Valley, the chamber says.
Dozens gathered inside the convention center to watch BYU's leaders receive the honor. The night included a flag ceremony by the BYU Color Guard, a performance by the BYU Young Ambassadors and a series of video clips paying homage to the university's history and its legacy of leaders.
Reece spoke fondly of the accomplishments under President Oaks' tenure as the school's president, including the opening of the J. Reuben Clark Law School, founded in 1973.
"This is a remarkable, remarkable development — not just for BYU, but for all of Utah Valley — and its economic impact for this community may not ever be fully quantified," he said.
The event also honored the late President Jeffrey R. Holland, who was president of the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He took the helm at BYU in 1980 through 1989, following President Oaks' tenure.
President Holland led BYU until 1989 and spent the past 31 years as a beloved apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He died late last December at the age of 85 of complications associated with kidney disease.
"President Holland has been a towering example to me, someone whose conviction, intellect and faith have left an indelible mark on this university and far beyond its walls," Reece said. "We were blessed to have him at this same dinner last year when the chamber honored Elder Matthew Holland and Sister Paige Holland ... he offered a soul-stirring prayer as only he could."
The late Rex E. Lee, as well as Kevin J. Worthen, Cecil O. Samuelson and Merrill J. Bateman were also among those honored Tuesday.
"BYU has always been a part of this valley — and this valley will forever be a part of BYU," Reece said. "On behalf of Brigham Young University and its presidents, we thank each of you as we collectively work to prepare the next generation to go forth and serve."
The leaders represent more than five decades of growth, innovation, and influence, guiding BYU through periods of transformation while remaining anchored in its founding mission of integrating faith and academic excellence, leaders of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce noted.
"BYU's impact on Utah Valley is both profound and enduring," Blair said in a statement.
"This event recognizes the leaders who have helped shape not only the university, but the broader community and economy it supports," he said.
The chamber says BYU's impact is evident across Utah Valley and beyond through financial contributions, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and playing a key role in the workforce and economic growth.
"And then you have students that come in from everywhere around the world, gain an education, and they take that back home to their hometowns and cities and countries. I mean, the reach of BYU is just beyond our imagination," Blair said.
Reece also recognized the wives of BYU presidents for their sacrifices and contributions to the university.
The night ended with a performance by the BYU Cougarettes, joined by Cosmo the Cougar.
