Brigham Young University was established in 1903 in a renaming of Brigham Young Academy (established in 1875). Past and present Brigham Young University presidents include: George H. Brimhall (1903-1921), Franklin S. Harris (1921-1945), Howard S. McDonald (1945-1949), (acting president) Christian Jensen (1949-1951), Ernest L. Wilkinson (1951-1971), Dallin H. Oaks (1971-1980), Jeffrey R. Holland (1980-1989), Rex E. Lee (1989-1995), Merrill J. Bateman (1996-2003), and Cecil O. Samuelson (2003- ).

The mission of Brigham Young University--founded, supported, and guided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints--is to assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life. That assistance should provide a period of intensive learning in a stimulating setting where a commitment to excellence is expected and the full realization of human potential is pursued. All instruction, programs, and services at BYU, including a wide variety of extracurricular experiences, should make their own contribution toward the balanced development of the total person. Such a broadly prepared individual will not only be capable of meeting personal challenge and change but will also bring strength to others in the tasks of home and family life, social relationships, civic duty, and service to mankind.

The institutional objectives of the university are to educate the minds and spirits of students within a learning environment that increases faith in God and the Restored Gospel, is intellectually enlarging, is character building, and leads to a life of learning and service; advance truth and knowledge in order to enhance the education of students, enrich the quality of life and contribute to a resolution of world problems; extend the blessings of learning to members of the Church in all parts of the world; and develop friends for the University and the Church.