In a thought-provoking address to the 2026 Convening of the American Council on Education (ACE) Commission on Faith-Based College and Universities, Elder Clark G. Gilbert, a prominent figure in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passionately advocated for the vital role of faith-based higher education in America. Gilbert, a former Commissioner of Education and President of Brigham Young University-Idaho, emphasized the transformative power of these institutions, which he believes are not just beneficial to their students but also to the entire nation.
Gilbert's plea was twofold: first, to elevate the recognition of faith-based colleges and universities, and second, to encourage their leaders to foster connections and learn from one another. He urged the audience, which included presidents of renowned religious universities and Utah Governor Spencer Cox, to move beyond isolation and articulate the reasons for the hope that faith-based education brings.
The theme of the convening, 'Learning to Disagree Better,' was a recurring motif. Gilbert argued that faith-based institutions can play a pivotal role in ensuring their voices are heard in the national dialogue, all while maintaining their core beliefs. He challenged the audience to 'come out,' 'articulate,' and 'engage' with the world, spreading the positive impact of faith-based education.
Gilbert highlighted the growing popularity of faith-based schools, noting record-breaking applicant numbers at BYU and BYU-Idaho. He attributed this to the need for a different kind of education and a supportive environment for students with religious identities. Gilbert's own experience growing up in a non-Latter-day Saint community in Arizona, where he faced discrimination, underscored the importance of these institutions in providing a sense of belonging.
Addressing the crisis of purpose in higher education, Gilbert pointed out that many young Americans identify as 'none' in terms of religious affiliation, yet they are the least likely to be happy. He advocated for faith and religious affiliation as remedies to unhappiness and loneliness, emphasizing the importance of safe spaces for faith conversations on college campuses.
Governor Cox's keynote speech, 'Learning to Disagree Better,' focused on the nation's 250th birthday and the importance of education and morality in self-government. He criticized the politicization of religion and the resulting unhealthy divisiveness, calling for a return to building character and moral values.
The convening also featured a panel discussion with presidents from Baptist, Catholic, Jewish, and Latter-day Saint-sponsored universities. Each panelist shared insights on how their institutions foster commonalities and respect across differences. The consensus was that faith-based universities play a crucial role in forming humble, respectful, and courageous students who serve society.
In conclusion, Elder Gilbert and Governor Cox's advocacy for faith-based education highlights its potential to address societal issues, from loneliness and unhappiness to political divisiveness. The convening's emphasis on 'Learning to Disagree Better' underscores the importance of respectful dialogue and the role of faith-based institutions in fostering unity and understanding in a diverse and often contentious world.
