The Utah Valley Chamber will honor seven presidents of Brigham Young University during the 2/14/2026 Pillar of the Valley event. This recognition comes as BYU approaches its 150th anniversary, celebrating a legacy defined by academic excellence and a commitment to faith.
The ceremony highlights leaders whose tenures span more than five decades of growth and transformation for the university.
The honored presidents include Dallin H. Oaks, who served from 1971 to 1980 and helped establish the J. Reuben Clark Law School. Jeffrey R. Holland led the university from 1980 to 1989, overseeing initiatives such as the BYU Jerusalem Center.
Rex E. Lee served as president from 1989 to 1995, focusing on the integration of scholarship and faith. Merrill J. Bateman, serving from 1996 to 2003, worked to expand the university's international presence.
Cecil O. Samuelson led the institution from 2003 to 2014, maintaining a balance between academic rigor and spiritual purpose. Kevin J. Worthen served from 2014 to 2023, reinforcing the university mission during a changing educational landscape. The current president, C. Shane Reese, continues to guide the university into its next chapter.
Beyond academics, BYU serves as a significant economic driver for Utah County. Economic analyses indicate that the university contributes hundreds of millions of dollars annually to the region and supports more than 15,000 jobs.
The upcoming Pillar of the Valley event on April 14, 2026, serves as a moment to recognize the collective impact of these leaders. The gathering reflects both the history and the future of the institution as it celebrates 150 years of service and leadership.
