A New Voice in the Quorum of the Twelve: Introducing Elder Clark G. Gilbert

On February 11, 2026, a significant announcement resonated throughout The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: the calling of Elder Clark G. Gilbert to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Ordained the following day by President Dallin H. Oaks and the First Presidency, Elder Gilbert brings a wealth of experience and a profound testimony to his new role. This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Church, adding a fresh perspective to its leadership.

From Arizona Roots to Global Leadership

Born in Oakland, California, and raised primarily in Phoenix, Arizona, Elder Gilbert, 55, has dedicated his life to service and learning. His journey began with a strong foundation in faith, instilled by his parents who believed in the inseparable connection between the gospel of Jesus Christ and education. He has served as a General Authority Seventy since April 2021 and, prior to that, as the Commissioner of the Church Educational System since August of the same year.

A Testimony of Jesus Christ

Elder Gilbert eloquently expressed his feelings about his calling, stating, “This is an amazing time to point people to the Savior Jesus Christ. When we do that, we can find joy and comfort and peace in Him.” He echoed President Russell M. Nelson’s teachings, emphasizing that true happiness is found in Christ and that He has the power to enrich lives worldwide. He is eager to witness of Jesus Christ to people across the globe.

Education as a Pathway to Faith

Elder Gilbert’s commitment to education is deeply rooted in his upbringing. He recalls his parents consistently demonstrating that faith and learning are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary forces. This belief was further solidified during his time at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations in 1994. He described BYU as a place where he first experienced the full strength of the Church and its positive influence on his academic pursuits.

Academic Pursuits and a Return to BYU

Continuing his academic journey, Elder Gilbert obtained a master’s degree in East Asian studies from Stanford University in 1995 and a doctorate in business administration from Harvard University in 2001. While he briefly joined Harvard’s faculty, his heart remained with BYU. A pivotal invitation from Kim B. Clark, then president of BYU–Idaho, led him and his wife, Christine, to Rexburg, Idaho, with a challenge to “rethink Church education on a global scale.”

Leading Church Education Initiatives

The Gilberts transitioned from Harvard Business School to BYU–Idaho in 2006, marking the beginning of Elder Gilbert’s extensive leadership within the Church Educational System. He served as CEO of Deseret Digital Media (2009), president of Deseret News (2010), president of BYU–Idaho (2015), and the inaugural president of BYU–Pathway Worldwide (2017). BYU-Pathway Worldwide, a groundbreaking initiative, provides access to spiritually based education for individuals around the world. His service culminated in his role as Commissioner of the Church Educational System, overseeing BYU, BYU–Idaho, BYU–Hawaii, Ensign College, BYU–Pathway Worldwide, and Seminaries and Institutes of Religion.

Focusing on Divine Potential

Elder Gilbert’s experience with inner-city Latter-day Saint youth in Boston profoundly impacted his approach to education. He discovered that focusing on their potential was key to their growth. He shared this insight in general conference, recounting the success stories of these youth who went on to serve missions, graduate from college, and build fulfilling lives. He believes that BYU-Pathway’s success lies in its focus on each student’s divine potential. Since its inception in 2009, BYU-Pathway has served over 288,000 students in more than 180 countries. You can learn more about the Church’s educational initiatives at Church Newsroom.

A Lifelong Commitment to Growth in Christ

Throughout his leadership, Elder Gilbert has consistently emphasized the importance of growing in Christ. He taught that the Church provides unparalleled opportunities for service, repentance, and personal improvement. He encourages individuals to keep their “sights and slopes pointed heavenward,” trusting that Christ will lift them to a higher place.

Family and Service

Elder Gilbert and Christine have been married in the Salt Lake Temple since 1994 and are blessed with eight children. He has also served faithfully in numerous Church callings, including as a full-time missionary in the Japan Kobe Mission, elders quorum president, counselor in a stake presidency, bishop, and Area Seventy.