10 BYU-Pathway Students Remember President Nelson

President Russell M. Nelson emphasized education throughout his ministry, teaching, “Education is yours to obtain. No one else can gain it for you. Wherever you are, develop a deep desire to learn. For us as Latter-day Saints, gaining an education is not just a privilege, it is a religious responsibility." 1

x

Russell M. Nelson, “Youth of the Noble Birthright: What Will You Choose?” (Church Educational System devotional for young adults, Sept. 6, 2013), broadcasts.churchofjesuschrist.org

In 2025, more than 85,000 students around the world heeded his call by participating in BYU-Pathway Worldwide . In honor of his passing, here are 10 students who were blessed as they followed the prophet.

1. Jexsabet Torre, Peru

President Nelson said, “Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find Him in the temple….” At that time, I felt fear, uncertainty, and growing anxiety about the future. One day, I went to the celestial room [of the temple] and prayed with all my heart. BYU-Pathway came to my mind. My anxiety and uncertainty started to calm the moment I enrolled. I am deeply thankful for the guidance of a prophet, who has lifted me during challenging times.

2. Mindy Ludgate, Utah, USA

President Nelson said, “We educate our minds so that one day we can render service of worth to somebody else.” I have already seen BYU-Pathway change my life. I started to make better choices and received my endowment. It is helping me become more self-reliant and the mother I need to be for my children.

3. Henry Dean Bondah, Ghana

BYU-Pathway has helped me a lot to build my faith in Jesus Christ. I realized the importance of this when President Nelson asked, “How firm is your foundation?” I know that if I am prepared I shall not fear, and the only way is to build my foundation on Christ.

4. Viviane Pirolli, Brazil

When I started my certificate, I thought I couldn’t do it. Studying in English was a huge challenge for me. I prayed every day for Heavenly Father to give me the strength to continue. When I finished the first course I felt very good. There is a phrase from President Nelson that guided me: “The Lord loves effort, and effort brings rewards."

5. Natalyn Shumway, California, USA

President Nelson says we should learn something new every day. … So that is my goal, to push with the Lord’s help to get a degree then let Him lead me down the path I should follow.

6. David Achiv, Nigeria

I battled the doubt that education was not for me. One morning during my scripture study, a striking thought flashed through my mind, a plea from President Nelson to “begin with the end in mind.” It came with a piercing feeling to experiment on his invitation. I know better now why gaining an education is imperative to progress in Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. I didn’t just want to get certificates for a career but to serve and contribute positively to my family, church, and community.

7. Roxanne Rodeth Cajumban Palatino-Ferreira, Philippines

President Nelson has taught, “The Lord loves effort. And when we put in the effort, the Lord magnifies us.” While I may still be far from where I want to be, I am no longer where I used to be. That, to me, is progress. I know my personal development will continue as long as I keep moving forward with the Savior by my side.

8. Previous Matanga, Zimbabwe

I participated in President Nelson’s Give Thanks challenge. 2

x

“President Russell M. Nelson on the Healing Power of Gratitude” (video), churchofjesuschrist.org

It had been just a few weeks having my mom home very sick and nothing was going my way. I still remember how stressed l was. After President Nelson’s message, l started to count my blessings and saw that the Savior was always on my side, helping us stand and providing support.

9. Kathy DeJong, Utah, USA

President Nelson said that we should all be lifelong learners. … I want to be a good example to my children and grandchildren. I want them to see how much I value a good education, even at 64 years old!

10. Asif Tufail, Pakistan

President Nelson has said, for members of the Church, education is a religious responsibility, and it will help build the kingdom of God. I can testify that education will change our lives and bring temporal and spiritual blessings to us and our families forever.