Newsroom

PHOENIX, Ariz. — PathwayConnect and Brigham Young University-Idaho online-degree-seeking students in the Phoenix area gathered for a unique opportunity to network at the first-ever BYU-Idaho Connections Conference on Friday, March 11. This conference was a result of BYU-Idaho President Clark G. Gilbert’s desire to “pioneer new ways to reach students” by “amplify[ing] opportunities for local gathering in centers of strength around the world.”

President Gilbert and motivational speaker Richie Norton addressed students about professional and personal potential before attendees separated into breakout sessions. These sessions enabled students to meet fellow students within their current or desired degrees.

“We primarily want these students to have a BYU-Idaho experience, especially the online-degree-seeking students who are on their own and not gathering in person. It’s important that they feel connected to the university,” said Mike Cordon, area manager over PathwayConnect in Arizona.

More than 500 online students, instructors, alumni, Church leaders, PathwayConnect students and missionaries, and guests attended the conference. It is anticipated that this and similar events will be held three to four times a year in areas with high concentrations of PathwayConnect and online students. The next Connections Conference is scheduled for Aug. 17 and will be held in Mexico City, Mexico.

BYU-Idaho President Gilbert addresses audience of over 500 at BYU-Idaho Connections Conference