On behalf of the Alumni Association, it is my privilege to welcome you, Henry Johnson Eyring, as our 17th president. When you served as our advancement vice president from 2008 to 2015, your leadership blessed us. Now, as BYU-Idaho's president, you have an alumni membership, exceeding 200,000, which enthusiastically supports you!
Our first principal, Jacob Spori, said, "The seeds we're planting today will grow and become mighty oaks and their branches will run all over the earth." As Student Life vice president, I see the strength of our alumni across the world standing firm and steadfast in their testimonies of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I commend their leadership in homes, communities, and the Church. Your father, our beloved Apostle and the first vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees, President Henry B. Eyring, prophesied that [BYU-Idaho students] "will become legendary for their capacity to build ... people ... and add value wherever they serve."[1] Assuredly, this wonderful pronouncement is happening, and with great humility, we recognize the source from which these blessings flow.
We thank you and Sister Eyring for leading exemplary lives worthy of emulation. We appreciate having your three oldest children, Emily, Henry Christian, and Sarah, among our ranks. We feel your love for BYU-Idaho, your dedication to the Spirit of Ricks, and, most importantly, your devotion to the Savior. Upon this defining and consecrated characteristic lies all of our hope, confidence, and joy. May the Lord bless you in this great endeavor. You have our support and love. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Notes
[1] Henry B. Eyring, "A Steady, Upward Course," BYU-Idaho Devotional, September 18, 2001