“They Are Inspired People”
“I have been enjoying this week with the Brooks mentors. They are inspired people who deliver their experiences and knowledge through their kindness and love. They have a wonderful family. I had a good time with them and received advice from them. I wish them the best.” These words by Geovanni, our student from Spain, aren’t surprising to hear. Geovanni used the word “inspired” to describe the Brooks.
As we learn more about this special couple, we’ll understand why students find them inspirational. Trevor and Cherri are both from Utah, met at Utah State University, and have three children (who also come to Cumorah with them!). Trevor holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Sociology from Utah State University, as well as a Ph.D. in Sociology from South Dakota State University. He is currently the Associate Dean of Curriculum at BYU-Idaho.
Cherri has a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in Family and Human Development from Utah State. For four and a half years, she has been an adjunct teacher at BYU-Idaho, teaching Family Relations. Why did they choose those majors? “It’s a major that helps you think about different perspectives and appreciate diversity,” shares Trevor. Like her husband, Cherri was fascinated with family relationships. “I just knew I wanted to go into some sort of family field with children. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with it, but I knew I wanted to learn more about it.” As mentors, Trevor and Cherri’s interest in human relationships and their complexities becomes evident.
Connecting with an Inspired Generation
You don’t need to go far to see the effects of the challenges faced by this generation of young adults. They are eager to connect significantly with those who believe in them and spread their vision. With their outstanding social skills, Cherri and Trevor easily made connections with our students, having a positive, everlasting impact on them. Not only were their words impactful, but our students also paid careful attention to their example as a couple and family. Needless to say, they were impressed with them. “With the Brooks, I felt a really good connection since day one,” shares Pedro, our student from Mexico. “I’m grateful for their example in the gospel and their teachings about being flexible.”
Experiences like Pedro’s are amazing to hear, as they capture the essence of our mission at Cumorah Academy. We work for change—the change of mind, hearts, and behavior of each student. However, changing is difficult, and having someone as a mentor makes the process undoubtedly easier. In fact, Cherri and Trevor have a unique talent for connecting with others, making them feel comfortable and able to absorb new ideas.
The Lord Wants You to Succeed
In this ever-challenging world, couples like Cherri and Trevor are a relic for our students. They inspire them to challenge themselves and live up to their own potential, which is what they need. Addressing a young adults’ devotional in 2018, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf made this promise to young adults:
“My dear friends, you are children of the living God, the God of the universe. He loves you, He wants you to succeed, He has a plan prepared for your success.” These are remarkable truths! We know the world tries to cover these truths in our hearts, but Cumorah Academy works so that each young adult on our campus feels such truths in their hearts. And mentors like Cherri and Trevor are among those who help us fulfill our mission.
They shared a few words about their experience at our campus:
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Camila Caraveo
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
To access other stories and events on our campus, check out our Blog Page.
