Elder Clark G. Gilbert recently joined the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was called on February 11, 2026, and ordained the next day by President Dallin H. Oaks and other church leaders.
Born in Oakland, California, and raised mainly in Phoenix, Arizona, Elder Gilbert has been a General Authority Seventy since 2021 and served as the Commissioner of the Church Educational System. He expressed deep gratitude for his role, emphasizing the importance of pointing others to Jesus Christ for joy and purpose.
Elder Gilbert’s passion for education stems from his upbringing. He learned from his parents that faith and learning go hand in hand. “The more you have faith, the more you want to learn and grow,” he said.
He graduated from Brigham Young University (BYU) in 1994, earning a degree in international relations. His time at BYU was transformative, as he felt a deep connection between his education and his faith. He later pursued advanced studies at Stanford and Harvard, earning master’s and doctorate degrees.
His career included teaching at Harvard and then transitioning to BYU–Idaho at the invitation of fellow educator Kim B. Clark. Elder Gilbert played a significant role in rethinking Church education on a global scale. He led initiatives such as BYU–Pathway Worldwide, which has supported over 288,000 students in more than 180 countries since its inception in 2009.
A key moment for him came when working with youth in Boston. He realized the importance of nurturing potential in young people as they embraced the gospel. “Their growth was gradual but steady,” he reflected on their journeys—a testament to the power of tailored educational support.
Elder Gilbert has often highlighted the divine potential in all individuals. He believes that growth isn’t about where you start in life; it’s about where you’re headed. “In the Lord’s timing, it is not where we start but where we are headed that matters most,” he said.
Beyond his educational roles, Elder Gilbert has held many church positions, including being a full-time missionary in Japan and serving as a bishop. He and his wife, Christine, were married in the Salt Lake Temple in 1994 and are proud parents to eight children.
His story resonates with many, showcasing that through faith, education, and support, individuals can rise to their potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities. This message is more relevant today than ever, as many face educational and social challenges. Elder Gilbert’s insights can inspire those navigating their own paths, reminding them of the power of faith and learning combined.
For more on Elder Gilbert’s thoughts, check out his recent talks here.
