Going Forth

The 2025 BYU Distinguished Alumni Award recipients share foundational stories from their lives.

By feeding and serving people in need, a BYU grad opens doors of opportunity.

After struggling to return to work as a middle-aged mother, Heather Nemelka now helps others make the transition.

A doctor combines the scientific and the human to improve outcomes—one childhood cancer patient at a time.

When political disagreements arise, an alumna advocates for kindness and curiosity.

A BYU alumna produces powerful theater to uplift multigenerational audiences.

An alumna’s inspired meeting leads to a life-altering kidney donation.

This alumna uses music to help young people of underserved populations at home and abroad.

As an ASL interpreter a BYU grad has found inspiration working with the Deaf community.

A couple is tackling addiction with therapy and recreation.

BYU alums are building community for people experiencing chronic homelessness.

An alum teaches refugee girls about their power and potential through soccer.

A young couple finds joy in friendships fostered on their missions.

A Brazilian alum is passing on the gift of mentorship.

With trees and playhouses, a family supports sick kids.

An aptly named BYU alum spent his career caring for the minds and hearts of American farmers.

A BYU grad is recognized for tireless community service.

A BYU alum is on a mission to make physics fun and accessible to everyone.

A BYU alumni couple has provided refuge for thousands of Northern Californian children.

Twin BYU journalism grads work to build a kinder, more civil nation.