Elder James R. Rasband Appointed New Commissioner of Church Educational System

LDS Gospel March 11, 2026

Elder Rasband comes to this assignment with a deep understanding of the intersection between academic rigor and spiritual growth." — The First Presidency

SALT LAKE CITY — The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the appointment of Elder James R. Rasband as the new Commissioner of the Church Educational System (CES). The appointment is effective April 1, 2026.

Elder Rasband, a General Authority Seventy, succeeds Elder Clark G. Gilbert, who was recently called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in February 2026.

A Legacy of Academic Excellence

In their official letter to General Authorities and Church leaders, the First Presidency highlighted Elder Rasband’s "extensive academic experience" as a primary factor for his selection. His professional background spans several decades of high-level leadership within the Church's educational institutions:

Legal Expertise: A graduate of Brigham Young University and Harvard Law School, Elder Rasband practiced law in Seattle before returning to BYU.

Dean of J. Reuben Clark Law School: He served as dean from 2009 to 2016.

Academic Vice President: Prior to his call as a General Authority, he served as the Academic Vice President of BYU.

Strategic Leadership in the Church

Since being sustained as a General Authority Seventy in April 2019, Elder Rasband has held several key administrative roles that have prepared him for this global assignment:

1. Asia North Area Presidency: Served as a counselor for three years, overseeing Church operations in Japan, Korea, and beyond.

2. Temple Department: Served as an Assistant Executive Director, focusing on the Church's sacred ordinances and temple construction.

The Role of the Commissioner

As Commissioner of CES, Elder Rasband will oversee a vast global network that includes BYU, BYU–Idaho, BYU–Hawaii, Ensign College, and the Seminaries and Institutes of Religion, which serve hundreds of thousands of students worldwide.

Transition Timeline

Date	Event
Feb 11, 2026	Elder Clark G. Gilbert called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Mar 11, 2026	First Presidency announces Elder James R. Rasband as successor.
Apr 1, 2026	Elder Rasband officially assumes the role of Commissioner.