Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, pushed the church away from the nickname 'Mormon', a term used for 200 years.
Nelson, a former heart surgeon and longtime church leader, became president in 2018 at the age of 93. Despite his advanced age, he proved to be an energetic and consequential reformer.
He told members to "buckle up" and "eat your vitamin pills. It's going to be exciting" during a visit to South America in 2018.
During his tenure, Nelson streamlined bureaucracy, took steps toward gender equity, and ended the church's century-long relationship with the Boy Scouts. However, he also reaffirmed the church's opposition to LGBTQ+ relationships and identities.
Russell M. Nelson passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy of significant reforms.
Author's summary: Russell M. Nelson reformed the church.