A President of Purpose and Compassion
Henry B. Eyring
Henry Bennion Eyring became president of Ricks College in 1971 at the age of 37. During his six-year tenure, he focused on integrating spiritual and academic growth. He initiated weekly devotionals, supported close faculty-student relationships, and encouraged an atmosphere of faith and personal development. His leadership during the 1976 Teton Dam Flood left a lasting legacy, as he transformed the campus into a relief center for thousands of displaced residents.
After leaving Ricks College in 1977, he was appointed as Deputy Commissioner of Church Education, and later served as Commissioner of the Church Educational System for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In this role, he oversaw seminaries, institutes, and Church-owned schools and universities, shaping curriculum and policy for hundreds of thousands of students.
In April 1995, after decades of educational leadership and service, Henry B. Eyring was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. His experience in both secular and spiritual education deeply influenced his future work as a church leader.
- Became president of Ricks College at age 37—the youngest in the school's history.
- Established the tradition of weekly devotionals, which continues today at BYU–Idaho.
- Advocated for student-centered learning and small-group discussions.
- Opened Ricks College facilities to house thousands of displaced people during the 1976 Teton Dam Flood.
- Personally helped clean and rebuild homes damaged by the Teton flood.
- Displayed his own artwork around campus to create an uplifting atmosphere.
- Earned degrees from the University of Utah (B.S. in Physics) and Harvard Business School (MBA).
- Went on to serve as a general authority and later in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Kathleen J. Eyring
- Graduated from Stanford University and was highly respected for her intelligence and poise.
- Supported her husband throughout his leadership at Ricks and in later church callings.
- Helped manage logistics and offer comfort to flood victims during the Teton Dam crisis.
- Raised six children while actively serving students and families connected to the college.
- Remembered by faculty and students for her kindness, grace, and quiet strength.