Keith W. Perkins

Dr. Keith W. Perkins has long been a passionate voice for bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to how we study and teach Church history. His distinguished career included a significant tenure as a professor at Brigham Young University, where he shared his deep knowledge and enthusiasm with countless students. His own academic path began with a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education, focusing on history, from Arizona State University. He then pursued his advanced studies at Brigham Young University, earning both a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Church history and doctrine. This rigorous academic foundation fueled his particular interest in the rich and complex history of the Church, especially during the pivotal Kirtland, Ohio, period, an era he explored with great dedication and insight throughout his work.

Before dedicating his time fully to university life at Brigham Young, Dr. Perkins made meaningful contributions to religious education in other settings. He served as the principal of Granite Seminary in Salt Lake City, guiding students and educators alike. His gift for teaching and his commitment to mentoring others were also clearly evident during his time as an instructor at the Tempe Institute of Religion in Arizona. There, he had a remarkable ability to connect with students, making religious studies engaging and inspiring, leaving a lasting positive impression on those he taught.

As a scholar, Dr. Perkins is recognized as a prolific author, contributing numerous articles and pieces to various LDS periodicals. His publications are a testament to his extensive research and profound expertise in Church history. His scholarly method is marked by a careful and meticulous examination of historical events, always seeking to understand their deeper meaning and their ongoing impact on contemporary religious thought and practice. Through his insightful writings, he has offered invaluable perspectives on the intricate tapestry of the Church's past, significantly enriching the understanding of both academic colleagues and interested readers alike.

Throughout his entire professional life, Dr. Perkins remained steadfast in his commitment to cultivating a deeper appreciation for the vital historical context that underpins religious beliefs and practices. His unwavering dedication to both education and rigorous scholarship has undeniably left a significant and enduring legacy, particularly at Brigham Young University and extending far beyond its campus. His work continues to influence the way Church history is approached, studied, and valued by new generations of students and scholars, ensuring that the lessons of the past remain vibrant and relevant.