Sorensen Center Awards

The Sorensen Center Awards highlight BYU faculty, staff, and students who strive to lead as Jesus Christ does. Honorees exemplify the principles of expressing love, honoring agency, and inviting accountability in the way they live, work, and serve, balancing real-world tensions with decisions that reflect a life centered on the Savior.

The Sorensen Center Gala on March 27, 2026 brought together faculty, staff, and students to celebrate these individuals. The evening was enriched by performances from the Express Love Art Showcase winners and a gallery of artwork, creating a meaningful and uplifting atmosphere that highlighted faith, leadership, and service.

2026 Award Winners

Craig Hart

Faculty Award

Craig Hart, a longtime BYU professor and leader, has spent decades exemplifying Christ-centered leadership through his work in teaching, mentoring, and campus service. Known for his deep commitment to discipleship, he has uplifted countless individuals by ministering with compassion and understanding, even amid personal challenges. His influence is far-reaching, with many across BYU and beyond able to trace their growth, faith, and leadership back to his example.

Natalie Kirtley

Faculty Award

Natalie Kirtley, a clinical director at BYU’s Counseling and Psychological Services, exemplifies quiet, Christ-centered leadership through her dedication to students and staff. In her demanding role, she leads with compassion, prioritizing relationships and creating a culture of trust, accountability, and growth. She views leadership as service, consistently going out of her way to uplift others and build meaningful connection and community.

Joy Weller

Staff Award

Joy Weller, a dedicated staff member with BYU Alumni Relations, exemplifies Christ-centered leadership through her humble, servant-focused life. She consistently reflects her deep devotion to Jesus Christ through quiet acts of compassion, willingly serving others—even in unnoticed or difficult tasks. Her steady faith and humility inspire those around her, showing that true leadership comes through selfless service, love, and devotion to God.

Nephi Dummar

Student Award

Nephi consistently chooses people over convenience, creating an environment where others feel valued and uplifted. Through his empowering and intentional approach, he helps others grow, encouraging them to become their best selves and draw closer to Christ. His care is constant and genuine, prioritizing eternal impact over immediate productivity.

Caden Tanner

Student Award

Through small, meaningful acts of love, Caden shows what it means to lead with intention and awareness of others’ needs. He builds strong relationships and encourages those around him to align their choices with the Savior. His example brings hope and direction, demonstrating that true leadership is found in daily acts of kindness and service.

Caleigh Kerr

Student Award

With quiet strength and unwavering faith, Caliegh leads by example and lifts those around her through accountability and compassion. She makes others feel seen and supported, consistently showing genuine care in her relationships. By keeping Christ at the center of her life, she leads with purpose and love, making a lasting impact.

Luke Miller

Sorensen Alumni Award

Luke Miller, one of the early graphic designers at the Sorensen Center, played a foundational role in its beginning by helping build and refine the center’s brand guide. He exemplifies Christ-centered leadership through his kindness, humility, and dedication to helping others grow, always taking time to uplift and support those around him. Through his example, he maintains high standards while pointing others toward Christ, showing that true leadership comes from serving others and helping them recognize their potential.

2026 Sorensen Center Gala

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Want to learn more about what it means to lead as Jesus Christ does?

Explore the Sorensen Center Christ-Centered Leader Model below to see how expressing love, honoring agency, and inviting accountability come to life in everyday leadership.

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