Notable PersonAmerican1932 – present

Dallin H. Oaks

President of the LDS Church, Religious leader, Legal scholar

Biography

Dallin Harris Oaks (born August 8, 1932) is an American religious leader who currently serves as President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), a position he assumed in 2024. Born in Provo, Utah, Oaks earned a law degree from the University of Chicago and served as a professor of law at Brigham Young University before his appointment as a judge. He was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the LDS Church in 1984, making him one of the church's senior leaders for four decades before his elevation to the presidency. Throughout his tenure in church leadership, Oaks has been known for his articulate defenses of religious freedom and traditional values, delivering numerous influential sermons and speeches. His background in law and academia combined with his religious authority has made him a significant voice in discussions of faith, ethics, and governance. As president of a church with over 17 million members worldwide, Oaks guides one of the most geographically diverse and rapidly growing religious organizations globally.

The Name Dallin

Dallin is a relatively uncommon name with strong associations to the LDS Church community, where it has been particularly popular among members. Dallin H. Oaks' prominence within the church has contributed to the name's usage and recognition among Latter-day Saint families.

Quick Facts

Dallin

Scottish origin

“A modern masculine variant of Dallas, using the -in ending common in contemporary American names. This spelling gained visibility through pop culture and maintains the geographical charm of its parent name. The name strikes a balance between being distinctive and recognizable.”