The value of giving to others is a principle that not only changes lives but also shapes true leaders. This week at Cumorah Academy, students had the privilege of learning from two inspiring mentors: Travis and Brenda Wilcox. Through their teachings and example, they reminded us that leadership isn’t just about achievement—it’s about service, connection, and generosity.
Travis and Brenda come from a meaningful beginning. Travis was raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Brenda grew up in the peaceful countryside of Idaho. They both served missions in Japan and crossed paths again at a mission reunion. That meeting would change everything. Nearly 34 years later, they now live in Salt Lake City, surrounded by their growing family, including six grandchildren.
Travis holds a degree in Information Systems and an MBA. With over 30 years of experience in IT, he knows firsthand the importance of continual learning and staying ahead in your field. As he wisely told our students, “Wherever you choose to go, strive to become the best in your field. Keep learning and developing your knowledge.”
Brenda studied Elementary Education at BYU. She dedicated most of her life to raising their family with love, patience, and care. Her nurturing spirit was reflected in her powerful reminder to our students: “Effective leaders love, validate, and help others feel valued and important.”
Discover the Value of Giving to Others
Throughout the week, the Wilcoxes spoke about the value of giving to others—a message that ties directly into one of Cumorah Academy’s founding lessons: Givers and Takers. This class teaches students that true leadership comes from a place of contribution, not competition.
Brenda and Travis showed that giving is not limited to financial generosity. It’s about offering your time, your talents, your encouragement, and your experience to help others succeed. They emphasized the power of mentorship and how having someone believe in you can change the trajectory of your life.
They also challenged students to reflect on their own gifts. What skills do you have? What experiences have shaped you? How can you use your story to lift someone else? These questions sparked meaningful conversations among students and led many to rethink what success and leadership really mean.
Leadership Begins with the Value of Giving to Others
What happens when you live a life of giving? According to recent research cited in The Guardian, giving doesn’t just help the receiver—it profoundly benefits the giver, too. There is a noticeable transformation that takes place on both ends of the exchange. When we give, we feel a greater sense of purpose, community, and well-being.
The Wilcoxes’ visit helped students feel that transformation in real time. After spending just a few days with them, students were already more motivated to contribute to each other’s lives. Whether it was through helping a classmate with a project, writing an encouraging note, or organizing community service, the spirit of giving was clearly contagious.
At Cumorah Academy, we believe that leadership is less about titles and more about actions. It’s about lifting others, even when no one is watching. That’s the kind of leadership the Wilcoxes modeled, and it’s the kind our students are learning to embrace.
Become a Leader Who Gives
Leadership built on service is at the heart of what we teach at Cumorah Academy. Mentors like Travis and Brenda Wilcox help reinforce that leadership is not about standing above others but walking alongside them.
They reminded us that networking is not just a career strategy—it’s a way to build meaningful relationships where we help and uplift each other. That mentorship is not about having all the answers, but about listening, supporting, and walking with others through their growth. And most importantly, that giving is not a loss, but a powerful gain for both giver and receiver.
Through their wisdom and example, the Wilcoxes reignited in us a sense of mission: to build a community that thrives through kindness, action, and a shared purpose.
Are you ready to grow into a leader who gives back?
At Cumorah Academy, we don’t just teach leadership—we live it. Here, you’ll be surrounded by mentors, students, and opportunities that challenge you to give, grow, and lead with purpose. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking for a place to deepen your impact, Cumorah is where transformation begins. Come learn what it truly means to lead with heart. Come experience the value of giving to others. Join us at Cumorah Academy.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Julieta Ramirez
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
