Elder Clark Gilbert and President Shane Reese, leaders from the Church Education System (CES) and Brigham Young University (BYU), recently attended a significant event in Washington D.C. hosted by the American Council on Education (ACE) Commission on Faith-based Colleges and Universities.
The event, which brought together thought leaders from religious academic institutions, featured Elder Gilbert introducing a screening of “HIGHERed: The Power of Faith-Inspired Learning,” a three-part documentary exploring the profound impact of faith in higher education.
The “HIGHERed” documentary offers an in-depth look into how religious identity plays a transformative role in academia. The series spotlights faith-based universities across the country, from the Church Education System to Notre Dame and Yeshiva University. Through interviews with students, scholars, and spiritual leaders, the documentary reveals how these institutions use a faith-centered approach to education to nurture not only academic growth but also divine potential, inspiring students to live lives of meaningful service.
This screening highlighted the enduring role of faith-based education in shaping resilient, purpose-driven communities. The event also underscored the Church’s commitment to advancing education through faith-based values while fostering supportive environments for individuals seeking personal and academic growth.
ACE Commission: Commission on Faith-based Colleges and Universities
The event also featured a diverse range of prominent figures from faith-based institutions.Those invited and involved include Reverend Robert A. Dowd of Notre Dame University, Linda Livingstone of Baylor University, Peter K. Kilpatrick of The Catholic University of America, Rabbi Ari Berman of Yeshiva University, Robin Baker of George Fox University, Barry Corey of Biola University, and Dr. Michael Lindsey of Taylor University. The event began with an introduction to the ACE Commission, followed by remarks from ACE President Ted Mitchell.
Renowned political scientist and author, Ryan Burge (The Nones: Where They Came From, Who They Are, and Where They Are Going), delivered the keynote address.
Clark Gilbert then introduced “HIGHERed: The Power of Faith-Inspired Learning” and a panel discussion featured reactions from Ari Berman (Yeshiva University), Linda Livingstone (Baylor University), Dr. Michael Lindsey (Taylor University), and Barry Corey (Biola University).
This event came at a time when faith-based institutions are facing increased pressure to demonstrate their relevance in the modern landscape of higher education. The screening of “HIGHERed” provided an opportunity to showcase the strengths of these institutions, highlighting how faith can drive academic success, personal growth, and service to others.
VIEW THE “HIGHERed: The Power of Faith-Inspired Learning” TRAILER NOW!
