Brigham Young University will host its annual Education Week next week, running Aug. 17–21, bringing campus programmes, devotional addresses and evening concerts to students, educators and community attendees. The event will include a Tuesday campus devotional by Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and two nights of the “America 250 in Concert” performances.
What’s new on campus this year
Organisers say two campus developments will shape the conference experience: the opening earlier this year of a new, expanded Creamery on Ninth, and noticeably less construction around campus than in recent years. Those changes mean attendees should find it easier to move between sessions and to access on-campus amenities.
“There’s not a lot of construction that people are going to have to be walking through going from class to class,”
The comment came from Bruce Payne, BYU’s Education Week programme administrator, who has overseen the conference since 1999. Payne said the more open campus will help attendees navigate between classes in a way that has not been possible for several years.
Programming and registration
BYU describes Education Week as a chance for participants to be refreshed in faith and learning. The week’s theme is “Charity Is the Pure Love of Christ; and It Endureth Forever.” Registration is open and will remain available through the end of the conference.
Key elements of the schedule include:
- Devotional address by Elder Patrick Kearon on Tuesday.
- Two evenings of the “America 250 in Concert” series.
- Daily classes, workshops and campus events for a mix of public and community attendees.
Organisers encourage visitors to check registration details and session listings on the BYU Education Week site before arriving, as popular sessions typically draw capacity crowds.
Campus amenities and community impact
The new Creamery on Ninth officially opened in January, replacing the student creamery that had operated on campus for more than a quarter-century. BYU spokesperson Todd Hollingshead noted the new shop has become a frequent stop for onlookers and students alike, contributing to the campus experience for conference-goers.
For families and educators attending Education Week, the reduced construction and the new food-service option may ease day-to-day logistics, particularly for those moving between several short sessions or bringing children to campus events. Payne framed the week as an opportunity for renewal: attendees often return home with fresh ideas for teaching, congregational activities and family faith formation.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dates | Aug. 17–21 |
| Theme | “Charity Is the Pure Love of Christ; and It Endureth Forever” |
| Featured devotional | Elder Patrick Kearon (Tuesday) |
| Evening concerts | America 250 in Concert — two nights |
| Registration | Open through end of conference |
Education Week has long drawn a mix of BYU students, faculty, public-school teachers and church members seeking professional development and spiritual enrichment. With the campus more accessible this year and a revitalised Creamery serving as a social hub, organisers hope the conference will feel more navigable and welcoming for visitors of all ages.
“[Education Week is] a great opportunity to be ‘renewed and refreshed,’”
As families and educators plan their travel, the university advises checking the latest campus maps and session schedules online. For many participants, the week is as much about informal connection — conversations over a shared meal or in line at the Creamery — as it is about formal classes and devotional gatherings.
