In 1972, Josephine Ann Christensen Oaks was seven months pregnant with child number 7 (of an eventual 9), when she arrived at the Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York City on crutches with a badly sprained ankle to participate in the National American Mothers Inc.® Convention where she was named as the National Young Mother of the Year. After receiving the award, Jo stated, “A young mother lives in a unique world. No profession or occupation rivals motherhood in potential for long-term benefit to the world as well-reared children take their places in society as effective, useful citizens.” [Eleanor Knowles, “America’s Young Mother of the Year,” Ensign, October 1972.]
Josephine is the oldest of seven children born to McKay and Josephine Christensen of Payson, Utah. Josephine met Merrill C. Oaks at Brigham Young University, and they were married in 1958. Jo studied Child Development and Family Relations, eventually completing her degree from BYU by correspondence, while Merrill attended medical school. During these demanding medical school years, three children were born, and Jo supported the family as a nursery school teacher. Jo also served as the District Relief Society President, the first Primary President of the Cumorah Stake, and the organist for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Merrill and Jo returned to Provo, Utah, to establish Merrill’s ophthalmology practice in 1967 and subsequently added 6 more children to their family. As Merrill established his medical practice, Jo established the children’s musical practice routines and lessons. During this time, Jo served on the board of the Young Mothers and as its President. She was instrumental in creating child development and parenting classes for the community. It was during this season of motherhood that Jo received the National Young Mother Award.
In subsequent years, Jo became certified and taught aerobics classes. She and Merrill participated in church service together, living in Seattle, Washington, the Philippines, and Omaha, Nebraska, where she used her skills as a speaker, teacher, and homemaker to nurture others. Jo enjoys her role as grandmother and great-grandmother to her ever-increasing posterity.
Thank you to Jo’s daughter for reaching out and providing this information on the 50th anniversary of Jo’s selection as 1972 National Young Mother of the Year.