At BYU–Idaho, nearly half of the student body is made up of women who are striving to develop spiritually, academically, and professionally. However, many of these women report experiencing confusing and inconsistent messaging about what their future should look like, particularly around balancing career goals and family responsibilities.
While some messaging emphasizes family as the highest ideal, others encourage education and leadership—but rarely both in tandem. This creates internal conflict and self-doubt, making it harder for women to fully engage with all the opportunities available to them on campus. They often feel they must choose between two worthy callings.
This is not just a personal challenge — it’s an institutional one. When students don’t feel supported or represented, it limits their ability to thrive and contribute.
This effort supports BYU–Idaho’s mission to help students become well-rounded, faithful, and capable leaders. Creating consistent, supportive messaging around women’s potential aligns with that vision. It ensures that female students are not only spiritually strong but also professionally prepared, with a clear sense of identity and purpose.
Proposed Action: Career-Path Conversations
Hosting events that elevate the stories of faithful, successful, Christ-like women offers a loud correction, high-impact solution. It’s measurable through student feedback, event participation, mentorship follow-up, and clearer messaging in classrooms and programs. But more than data, this is a cultural alignment. About empowering future mothers, leaders, and covenant keepers. This isn’t just achievable—it’s essential.
