Laura W. Bush

Former First Lady of the United States

Laura Bush has consistently been ranked as one of the most popular first ladies by public opinion polls.  One reason seems clear:  Mrs. Bush fulfilled her role as First Lady of the United States with modesty, grace, and an unwavering commitment to encourage literacy at home and acknowledgement of woman's rights across the globe.

As First Lady, Mrs. Bush impressed the world when she presented the President's Weekly Radio Address in 2001.  The radio address was a key moment in the Bush administration because it demanded the world acknowledge the plight of women and children suffering under the Taliban and underscored the administration's commitment to fostering democracy and individual rights around the globe.

A former teacher and librarian, Mrs. Bush convened in 2001, a Summit on Early Childhood Cognitive Development, providing a forum for prominent scholars and educators to share research on the best ways for parents and caregivers to prepare children for lifelong learning.  She is an enthusiastic proponent of teacher recruitment programs such as Teach for America, The New Teacher Project, and Troops to Teachers.

As the leader of former George W. Bush's Helping America's Youth initiative, Mrs. Bush has listened closely to the concerns of young people, parents, and community leaders throughout the country.  She draws attention to proven programs that help children avoid such risky behaviors as drug and alcohol use and early sexual activity and violence.  She also highlights the need for a caring adult role model in every child's life.

In September 2001, Mrs. Bush joined the Library of Congress to launch the first National Book Festival.  The Festival has grown each year, drawing more than 120,000 book-lovers from across the nation to Washington, D.C. in 2008.  In 1995, Mrs. Bush established the Texas Book Festival, and it continues to thrive today.  In 2006, Mrs. Bush hosted leaders from around the world for the White House Conference on Advancing Global Literacy, showcasing successful, culturally aware literacy programs from a diversity of countries.

Mrs. Bush continues to be actively involved in issues of national and global concern today.  She currently serves as Honorary Ambassador for the United Nations Literacy Decade.