Henry B. Eyring is a senior leader within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, currently serving as First Counselor in the First Presidency. This announcement of the new leadership structure occurred on October 14, 2025, following the death of previous Church president Russell M. Nelson on September 27, 2025. Eyring, who is 92 years old, serves alongside President Dallin H. Oaks and Second Counselor D. Todd Christofferson.
Eyring has a long history of leadership within the organization. According to church records, he was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 1, 1995. His experience in the First Presidency spans several decades and multiple administrations. He served as a counselor to President Thomas S. Monson from 2008 to 2018 and served as a counselor to President Russell M. Nelson from 2018 to 2025. In a 2018 news conference, Eyring expressed that for him, it is a special joy to be at the side of these great men.
Beyond his role in the First Presidency, Eyring holds a position on the Board of Trustees for the Church Educational System. In this capacity, he serves as the First Vice-chair, working alongside Chair Dallin H. Oaks and Second Vice-chair D. Todd Christofferson. The Church Educational System oversees various institutions, including BYU–Pathway Worldwide and Ensign College, both of which are located in Salt Lake City.
Eyring’s professional background includes academic and administrative roles prior to his full-time church service. He served on the faculty at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University from 1962 to 1971. Later, he served as the president of Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho, from 1971 to 1977.
In his capacity as a leader, Eyring has offered testimony regarding the transition in church leadership. Following the appointment of the new First Presidency, Eyring stated that he is grateful for the trust and grateful for the people whose faith he knows will sustain the church in the work of the Restoration. He further testified that preparation is occurring and that President Oaks is the perfect one to do the things that he knows the Lord will want done.
Residents of Salt Lake City encounter Eyring's influence through the global administration of the Church, which is headquartered in the city. His leadership affects the governance of the Church and its educational institutions, which include various colleges and schools operating within the region.
What this means for Salt Lake City
For Salt Lake City residents, Eyring's role in the First Presidency and the Church Educational System means he is part of the leadership governing a major global organization headquartered in the city. His decisions and administrative roles influence the direction of the Church and its various educational institutions located throughout the region.
