SALT LAKE CITY-Tuesday, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Russell M. Nelson received his doctorate from the University of Utah because of the easing of local covid-19 restrictions.

University officials delivered Pres. Nelson his honorary degree citation and doctoral hood during an in-person visit to the Church Administration Building on Temple Square.

The degree citation notes the prophet’s “significant contributions to medical science” as well as his “vast accomplishments as a scholar, educator and religious leader” around the world.

Former presiding Bishop of the Church, David H. Burton, serves on the university’s board of trustees, and read the citation to all of those in attendance.

Pres. Nelson, the Church’s 17th president in succession, was one of three honorary doctoral degree recipients announced by the University of Utah in May. The others were C. Hope Eccles, an educational advocate and William J. Rutter, an American biochemist.