Clark G. Gilbert, the former president of Brigham Young University-Idaho, has been appointed to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as announced by church officials. Gilbert’s calling was made public on Wednesday, and he was ordained the following day by President Dallin H. Oaks along with other leaders from the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve.
At 55 years old, Elder Gilbert has been a General Authority Seventy since 2021 and has held the position of Commissioner of the Church Educational System. He was born in Oakland, California, and grew up in Arizona, building a diverse career that includes leadership roles at BYU–Idaho, BYU–Pathway Worldwide, Deseret News, and Deseret Digital Media.
In a statement delivered from the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in Salt Lake City, Elder Gilbert expressed his desire to guide individuals toward Jesus Christ, highlighting the transformative power He can have in their lives. “If people all across the world will look to Him, He will make their lives better, more meaningful, more joyful,” said Elder Gilbert.
Elder Gilbert holds multiple degrees from prestigious institutions such as Brigham Young University, Stanford University, and Harvard University. He has consistently underscored the connection between faith, education, and the potential of individuals. His extensive service in the Church includes a mission in Japan, and he has held the positions of bishop and Area Seventy. He takes over the position in the Quorum left vacant by the passing of President Jeffrey R. Holland on December 27.
Elder Gilbert has been married to his wife, Christine, since 1994, and the couple is proud parents to eight children. His new position opens up new opportunities for leadership and spiritual guidance within the Church, promising a continued focus on education and faith.