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 been controversial for 200 years.
Nelson became president in 2018 at the age of 93, but his tenure was not uneventful. He proved to be a consequential reformer, streamlining bureaucracy and taking steps toward gender equity.
He told members to "buckle up" and "eat your vitamin pills. It's going to be exciting."
During his presidency, Nelson ended the church's century-long relationship with the Boy Scouts and reaffirmed its opposition to LGBTQ+ relationships and identities.
Nelson passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy as an energetic leader.
Author's summary: Russell M. Nelson was a reformer president.