A Scholar of Faith and History
Mary Jane Searle (formerly Mary Jane Woodger), Ed.D., is a professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University. Born and raised in American Fork and Salt Lake City, Utah, she holds a bachelor's degree from BYU, a master's degree in education from Utah State University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from BYU with a minor in Church history and doctrine.
She has written or coauthored more than twenty books and numerous articles on Latter-day Saint history, doctrine, and women's religious experience — a body of scholarship that spans presidential biographies, explorations of personal revelation, material culture of the Restoration, and the often-untold stories of Latter-day Saint women.
Areas of Scholarly Focus
Dr. Searle's research draws on archival sources, oral histories, and material culture to illuminate dimensions of Latter-day Saint life that often remain at the margins of official narratives. Her work bridges rigorous historical method with accessible, faith-affirming prose.
Twentieth-Century LDS History
Biographical and institutional history of the modern Church, including studies of Church presidents and educational leaders.
History of Latter-day Saint Women
Recovery and analysis of women's spiritual experiences, leadership, and contributions to the Church across eras.
Church Education & Religious Instruction
History and pedagogy of Latter-day Saint religious education, from Seminary and Institute to BYU Religion courses.
Doctrine & Covenants / Restoration History
Historical and doctrinal study of Restoration-era events, revelations, and material artifacts.
Books & Scholarly Work
Author or coauthor of more than twenty books, including works on David O. McKay, George Albert Smith, John Taylor, George H. Brimhall, Wallace F. Toronto, Latter-day Saint women, revelatory dreams, and Restoration artifacts. Her books have been published by Deseret Book, the BYU Religious Studies Center, and other Latter-day Saint presses, and are used by teachers and readers across the Church.
- Revelatory dreams in Latter-day Saint history and scripture (Dreams as Revelation)
- Objects and artifacts of the Restoration (50 Relics of the Restoration and related volumes)
- Historical travel guides to New England, Missouri, and Illinois Church history sites
- Biographical studies of Church presidents and educational leaders
Recognition & Scholarly Service
Dr. Searle is a frequent presenter at the BYU Church History Symposium and Religious Studies Center events, and has received multiple awards for teaching and scholarship from BYU and related historical associations.
She contributes actively to the broader Latter-day Saint scholarly community through conference presentations, editorial work, and mentorship of students and emerging historians.