Final answer:
BYU-Idaho's mission is rooted in the teachings and culture of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The university emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and spiritual growth, reflecting the historical settlement of Mormons in the Intermontane West. This connection to the LDS Church fosters a unique educational environment focused on intellectual and moral advancement within a religious framework.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mission or focus of Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho) is deeply tied to the history and cultural influence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, often known as the Mormon church. This religious backing influences their educational approach, which emphasizes not only academic excellence but also character building and moral development within a framework that aligns with church principles. One of the distinctive features of BYU-Idaho and other educational institutions affiliated with the LDS Church is their focus on creating a learning environment that fosters not just intellectual growth but also spiritual enrichment, guided by the teachings of the church.
The region now known as Utah and surrounding areas such as Idaho became a haven for practicing Mormons during the 19th century. The faith's early followers, under the leadership of Joseph Smith and later Brigham Young, settled in the area to escape religious persecution and establish a community where they could live according to their beliefs. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints formed a significant economic and cultural realm in this part of the western United States, and BYU-Idaho stands as a modern expression of that enduring legacy. The university's mission reflects the same ethos of the pioneering Mormons who sought to create a sanctified community in the Intermontane West. It aims to provide education in an atmosphere of religious faith, commitment to church teachings, and adherence to principles like honesty, integrity, and service to others.