Messaging Examples

Here are a few common ideas you could be asked to communicate, along with examples of how they could be written through our voice.

The message:

BYU is a rigorous and unique academic institution

In our voice:

We believe a world yearning for hope and joy needs a different model of university. At Brigham Young University, belief enhances inquiry, study amplifies faith, and revelation leads to rich understanding. Teaching and research are both valued, and excellence and affordability go hand in hand. As the flagship higher education institution of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU strives to be among the exceptional universities in the world and an essential university for the world.

The message:

BYU is proud of its excellent students and alumni and wants to highlight their accomplishments.

In our voice:

We educate our students to excel for the benefit of the world. We can certainly measure their success by the national honors they receive, the competitive graduate programs they enter, and the global organizations that recruit them. But the outcome that matters most is how they put to use the lessons of faith, intellect, and character they have learned here. Our students and alumni care deeply about the lives of others. They lead by example—as lifelong learners, community builders, and problem solvers.

The message:

BYU has a storied history and a bright future.

In our voice:

BYU began nearly 150 years ago on the edge of the American frontier—the dream of pioneers who insisted learning was as necessary to their lives as food and shelter. Today, we’re the home of Cougar Nation and the world-class embodiment of our faith’s theological imperative to educate. Hundreds of thousands of alumni worldwide look to BYU as the alma mater that nourished transformational experiences in their lives—experiences that continue to energize their service to God, family, profession, and community.
BYU began nearly 150 years ago on the edge of the American frontier—the dream of pioneers who insisted learning was as necessary to their lives as food and shelter. Today, we’re the home of Cougar Nation and the world-class embodiment of our faith’s theological imperative to educate. Hundreds of thousands of alumni worldwide look to BYU as the alma mater that nourished transformational experiences in their lives—experiences that continue to energize their service to God, family, profession, and community.

Getting It Right

There is an important balancing act to perform while writing for BYU and the UX Design Team. Your writing should be confident, highlight BYU’s unique position in the world, and uplift the reader without coming off as arrogant, self-important, or preachy. Don’t overdo it. Implement BYU’s voice while communicating professionally and clearly.