On Tuesday, April 22, Auburn University Panhellenic women filled the Student Activities Center for an evening of encouragement with author and speaker Grace Valentine. Hosted by Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, the event aimed to unite women across campus through faith based guidance and practical advice for navigating life as a college student.
The evening began with a welcome from Zeta Tau Alpha’s Vice President Anna Scott Wieler and Chaplain Jada Deitrick. Deitrick led the crowd in prayer before introducing Valentine to the stage. The first 200 attendees received a free copy of Valentine’s newly released book, The Better Friend.
Students came interested in hearing in what Valentine had to say.
“I know Grace from social media and Instagram,” said Jennifer Hale, junior in health services administration. “She’s well known for that, and I was most interested to see how she brings her writing into her speeches.”
“I’ve seen her before at the same event last year and am currently reading her book,” said Julia Davison, sophomore in public relations.“I was excited to see how what she writes in her book translates to real life.”
Valentine, known for her work including "Am I Enough?" and "What Will They Think?", began her talk by reflecting on her own college experiences and the pressures many young women face today.
"I remember what it was like to try to look like I had it all together,” Valentine said. “But God doesn’t ask us to be perfect, He asks us to be present, to be faithful, and to trust Him with our story.”
Throughout the evening, Valentine introduced six foundational truths that she said had helped her navigate her own challenges and stay grounded in faith. Each truth was presented alongside personal stories and reflections on how the lessons could apply to the lives of college women.
“First,” Valentine said, “We have to know the difference between miserable comforters and unreasonable love. Miserable comforters tell you what you want to hear to keep you from growing. Unreasonable love speaks truth, even when it’s hard, because it wants more for you.”
She continued by emphasizing that true community doesn’t just happen — it requires intentionality.
“Community is created, not found,” Valentine said. “If you want deep friendships, you have to show up for people. You have to go first, be vulnerable first, and give without expecting something back.”
The third truth focused on offering others grace while avoiding excuses.
"Give grace, not excuses,” Valentine said. “There’s a difference between showing compassion and justifying unhealthy behavior. We’re all a work in progress, but we’re still called to grow.”
For the rest of the truths, Valentine encouraged students to trust God's timing and not compare their journey to others, reminding them that rejection can be a form of protection. She emphasized the importance of waiting for opportunities aligned with God’s plan rather than forcing what isn’t meant to be. Lastly, she spoke on friendships, urging students to hold one another accountable with love, lifting each other up instead of calling each other out.
Valentine ended the night by reminding the audience of the redemptive nature of faith. “A bad thing can become a good thing when it becomes a God thing,” Valentine said. “God can take the most painful parts of your life and use them for something beautiful. Nothing is wasted.”
As the evening drew to a close, Valentine invited attendees to participate in a Q&A session, offering thoughtful advice and personal insights in response to their questions. Following the discussion, she closed the night with a prayer over everyone in the room, wrapping up the evening with a moment of reflection and encouragement.
After the event, Katherine Short, junior in hospitality management, reflected on her experience.
“She does a good job connecting with college students. I was looking forward to hearing how she speaks to people our age," Short said.
After the event concluded, attendees had the opportunity to meet Grace Valentine personally, take a photo with her and share a few words as she greeted guests in a post event meet and greet.
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