Who Is President Dallin H. Oaks? Understanding His Life And Leadership
Have you ever wondered about the man who leads one of the world's fastest-growing religions? President Dallin H. Oaks stands as a prominent religious leader, respected legal scholar, and devoted family man. His journey from a promising young attorney to the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints represents a remarkable story of faith, dedication, and service.
Biography of Dallin H. Oaks
Dallin Harris Oaks was born on August 12, 1932, in Provo, Utah. He grew up in a family that valued education, faith, and public service. His father, Lloyd E. Oaks, was a physician, while his mother, Stella Harris Oaks, was a teacher who instilled in him a love for learning and spiritual truth.
Oaks demonstrated exceptional academic ability from an early age. He attended Brigham Young University for his undergraduate studies, where he graduated with highest honors in accounting. He then earned his law degree from the University of Chicago Law School, where he served as editor-in-chief of the Chicago Law Review.
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Personal Details and Bio Data
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dallin Harris Oaks |
| Date of Birth | August 12, 1932 |
| Place of Birth | Provo, Utah, USA |
| Education | B.S. Accounting (BYU), J.D. (University of Chicago) |
| Spouse | June Dixon Oaks (deceased), Kristen M. McMain |
| Children | Six |
| Profession | Religious leader, former attorney, jurist, educator |
| Current Position | President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints |
Early Career and Legal Accomplishments
Before his religious leadership, Oaks built an impressive legal career. He served as a law clerk to Chief Justice Earl Warren of the United States Supreme Court, a prestigious position that launched his professional journey. Following this clerkship, he became a professor at the University of Chicago Law School, where he taught for several years.
In 1971, Oaks returned to his alma mater, Brigham Young University, to serve as its president. During his nine-year tenure, he guided the university through significant growth and development. He later served as a justice on the Utah Supreme Court from 1980 to 1984, where his legal acumen and judicial philosophy earned him widespread respect.
Apostolic Ministry and Leadership
Called as an Apostle in 1984
On April 7, 1984, Dallin H. Oaks was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At the time of his call, he was serving as first counselor in the First Presidency to President Spencer W. Kimball and president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
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This unique situation, where he held multiple high-ranking positions simultaneously, demonstrated the trust placed in him by church leadership. His legal background and administrative experience made him particularly well-suited for the complex responsibilities of church leadership.
Service in the First Presidency
In January 2018, President Russell M. Nelson reorganized the First Presidency and called Dallin H. Oaks to serve as first counselor. This appointment came after President Nelson had been sustained as the church's new president, following the passing of President Thomas S. Monson.
Oaks served faithfully in this capacity for seven years, providing steady leadership and wise counsel. During this time, he worked closely with President Nelson and President Henry B. Eyring, who served as second counselor, to guide the church through various challenges and opportunities.
On January 14, 2025, in Salt Lake City, President Oaks was sustained as the 14th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, succeeding President Nelson.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
President Oaks is known for his devotion to law and revelation. His legal background influences his approach to church administration, emphasizing order, fairness, and careful consideration of principles. He teaches that the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost provides guidance in both personal and institutional decision-making.
His leadership style is characterized by thoughtful deliberation, clear communication, and unwavering commitment to gospel principles. He has a reputation for being direct yet compassionate, always seeking to build faith and understanding among church members.
Personal Life and Family
Family Background
The middle name "Harris" is his mother's maiden name, reflecting a family tradition of honoring maternal heritage. This connection to his maternal lineage has been important throughout his life.
Oaks married June Dixon in 1952, and they had six children together. June passed away in 2019 after a marriage of nearly 67 years. In 2021, he married Kristen M. McMain in the Salt Lake Temple.
A Humorous Encounter
A prominent visitor to BYU while Dallin H. Oaks was president returned from the restroom and told his host, "Well, I've found out that you 'Mormons' are just like everybody else!" This anecdote, often shared by President Oaks, reflects his view that Latter-day Saints are ordinary people living extraordinary principles.
Notable Teachings and Testimonies
In this powerful testimony, Dallin H. Oaks has emphasized the importance of personal revelation, the role of the Holy Ghost, and the necessity of living gospel principles. He is particularly known for his teachings on:
- The importance of following the prophet
- The role of the Holy Ghost in daily life
- The relationship between faith and reason
- The importance of religious freedom
- The need for moral clarity in a changing world
10 Facts to Help You Get to Know President Dallin H. Oaks
He was born in Provo, Utah, and raised in a family of educators and professionals.
He graduated from Brigham Young University with highest honors in accounting.
He served as a law clerk to Chief Justice Earl Warren of the U.S. Supreme Court.
He was the youngest president in Brigham Young University's history when appointed at age 38.
He served as a justice on the Utah Supreme Court before his call as an apostle.
His middle name, Harris, is his mother's maiden name.
He is known for his devotion to law and revelation in both his legal and religious work.
He has been a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles since 1984.
He served as first counselor in the First Presidency under President Russell M. Nelson from 2018 to 2025.
He was sustained as the 14th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on January 14, 2025.
Leadership with Todd Christofferson
Throughout his ministry, President Oaks has worked closely with other church leaders, including President D. Todd Christofferson. Christofferson, along with Henry B. Eyring, was called to serve with him as first and second counselors in the First Presidency. This collaborative leadership approach has characterized much of his service.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Faith and Service
President Dallin H. Oaks begins his prophetic ministry with steady, thoughtful leadership that builds upon decades of faithful service. His unique combination of legal expertise, administrative experience, and spiritual devotion positions him to guide the church through the challenges of the modern era.
From his early days as a promising young attorney to his current role as prophet, seer, and revelator, President Oaks has consistently demonstrated a commitment to truth, justice, and faith. His leadership continues to inspire millions of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints around the world, as he teaches principles that bring light, hope, and direction to people's lives.
