A Lifetime of Education and Service

Rick and Sonja Decker dedicated much of their lives to important values such as teaching, caring, and lifting. 

Now, they bring their experience, leadership, and love for people into their role as Managing Directors.

Rick and Sonja both attended the University of Utah, where they built the foundation for their future careers and family life. Sonja studied Health and Nutrition. Rick earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and later completed a Master of Science at Utah State University, focusing on wildlife studies.

Education became an important part of their journey. Their studies helped them develop discipline, curiosity, and a lifelong desire to learn.

That same desire now helps them guide and support young adults.

A Career Focused on Young Adults

Rick spent more than 30 years working with Seminaries and Institutes of Religion for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During those years, he worked closely with young adults during important moments of growth and decision-making.

Young adults face pressure from many directions. They think about careers, relationships, education, and purpose. Many search for guidance and stability as they try to build their futures.

Rick spent decades helping students navigate those challenges.

His experience gave him a deep understanding of leadership, mentoring, and personal development. He learned how to connect with students, encourage growth, and help them recognize their potential.

“Working with the young adults, and with education, was just something that we thought we could do because we enjoy being with the adults,” Rick and Sonja shared.

That simple statement reveals an important truth. People grow when leaders genuinely care about them.

Sonja’s Dedication and Work Ethic

Sonja built a strong career through years of hard work and dedication. She spent more than 20 years working as a gardener and landscaper at the Jordan River Temple and the Oquirrh Mountain Temple.

Her work required patience, consistency, and attention to detail.

Landscaping teaches valuable lessons. Growth takes time. Beauty requires effort. Small actions create meaningful results over time.

Those same principles apply to mentoring young adults.

Students often need encouragement during difficult moments. They need leaders who understand progress takes time. Sonja’s experience and personality help create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone around her.

Her example also reminds students that meaningful work matters. Service, consistency, and kindness can influence many lives.

A Partnership Built Through Music and Leadership

Rick and Sonja first met while singing in the choir at the University of Utah. Music brought them together, but leadership also played an important role in their relationship.

Both served as choir presidents during their time at the university.

Leadership often begins with simple opportunities. A classroom assignment, a volunteer position, or a student activity can shape future confidence and character.

Rick and Sonja embraced those opportunities early in life.

Today, they continue to lead together after 42 years of marriage. They raised five children and now enjoy life as grandparents to 15 grandchildren.

Family remains one of their greatest joys.

Their life experiences help them understand the importance of strong relationships, communication, and support. Young adults benefit from leaders who understand both personal and professional growth.

Supporting Students and Staff

As Managing Directors, Rick and Sonja will provide support to students and staff across campus. They will help strengthen the daily experience for everyone involved.

Leadership requires more than organization and planning. Great leaders create an environment where people feel valued and motivated.

Rick and Sonja bring that kind of leadership.

Their background in education, service, and family life gives them a balanced perspective. They understand the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and personal growth.

Students need mentors who listen, encourage, and guide them with patience. Rick and Sonja have spent decades developing those skills.

Their presence on campus will help students feel supported as they work toward their goals.

Why Mentorship Matters for Young Adults

Many young adults want direction in life. They want to discover their talents, strengthen their confidence, and prepare for meaningful futures.

Mentors can make a major difference during that process.

Strong mentors help students recognize opportunities they may not see on their own. They encourage growth during moments of uncertainty. They provide wisdom that comes from real experience.

Rick and Sonja understand the value of mentorship because they have spent their lives serving others.

Their example shows that leadership grows through service, education, consistency, and care for people.

Young adults often remember the mentors who believed in them. Those relationships can influence careers, goals, and personal growth for years.

A Message for Young Adults

Every young adult has potential.

Growth takes effort, patience, and courage. Many opportunities begin with simple decisions to learn, serve, and stay committed during difficult moments.

Rick and Sonja Decker’s story reminds students that a meaningful life comes through consistent work, strong values, and genuine care for others.

You do not need to have everything figured out today. You only need the willingness to keep learning and growing.

Surround yourself with mentors who challenge and encourage you. Build relationships that strengthen your future. Look for opportunities to lead, serve, and develop your talents.

Your future can become much bigger than you imagine when you choose growth every day.

Join Cumorah Academy

Your future starts now.

At Cumorah Academy, you can learn, grow, and meet great people. You can learn from mentors like Rick and Sonja Decker. You can build confidence and prepare for your future.

Here, you will find support, friendship, and new opportunities.

If you want to grow and become a better leader, Cumorah Academy is for you.

Visit Cumorah Academy and start your leadership journey today.