Russell M. Nelson's Presidency
Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, pushed the church away from the nickname 'Mormon', a term that has shaped Americans' view of the church for 200 years.
Nelson, a former heart surgeon and longtime church leader, became president in 2018 at the age of 93. Despite his advanced years, he proved to be an energetic leader, streamlining bureaucracy and taking steps toward gender equity.
"Eat your vitamin pills. It's going to be exciting."
During his tenure, Nelson also ended the church's century-long relationship with the Boy Scouts and reaffirmed its opposition to LGBTQ+ relationships and identities. He passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy as a consequential reformer.
Author's summary: Russell M. Nelson led significant reforms.