As I officially pass the CEO baton to my successor, Dr. Shilo Brooks, next week, it’s a good moment to reflect upon the work of the Bush Center and the journey over the past nine years.
People often throw out the words “honor and a privilege,” but in my case, serving in this capacity has truly been the honor and a privilege of a lifetime.
The Bush Center is a place of purpose. We are driven by the values upon which President and Mrs. George W. Bush built a lifetime of service – freedom, opportunity, accountability, and compassion. The Bushes are inspirational leaders who are an important part of our nation’s story. They served in consequential times.
Their values guide all the work we do here as we combine public programming and policy work to ensure opportunity for all, strengthen our democracy, and advance free societies globally. We combine ideas and action to help make the world a better place. We know that the world watches us, and it is critical that our institutions be strong and focused on enhancing the lives of all Americans. We believe in economic and political freedom guarded by a compassionate but limited government.
In addition, as President Bush points out, 9/11 taught us that what happens over there, matters here. The condition of people around the world impacts our national security here at home. We are unapologetic globalists who believe that America, while not always getting it right, is still a force for good in the world and that our leadership is needed on the international stage. When we retreat, the vacuums are filled by those who seek to destabilize.
I am honored to say that we have advanced this important work and have ensured that the Bush Center will be a home for these compassionate conservative values far into the future.
First and foremost, it has been an honor to lead an incredible group of dedicated professionals. Our incredible Bush Institute team continues to produce work that not only analyzes major issues but also provides practical solutions to address them. Our experts are sought after for their knowledge in federal, state, and local policy circles. People know that when they access our work, they are getting data-driven, reasoned, and workable solutions. Our world-class leadership programming empowers those addressing major global challenges as well.
In addition, the team supporting the Bush Museum and the rest of the Bush Center make this place tick. We are blessed with a world-class facility that puts on exhibits and programs enjoyed by visitors from all over the world. We are a unique place, and we aim high with everything we do. We produce content that is fitting of a presidential center.
As a team, we have executed on our long-range strategic plan:
- Advancing world class thought leadership at the Bush Institute.
- Producing quality, strategically designed public and leadership programming.
- Engaging with our stakeholders and growing constituencies around the world.
- Ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
We have advanced each of these pillars significantly over the past nine years, thanks to so many who have dedicated their time and resources to the task. Clearly, with a growing endowment and a budget that has increased at less than the rate of inflation, we are built to last as a national asset where these values will always have a home.
Our incredible board of directors, led by former Commerce Secretary Don Evans, has provided consistent guidance and support. Every strong organization can point to a strong and steadfast board as a key ingredient for success. We are no exception.
Plus, our relationship with SMU has never been stronger. We would not be here but for the vision and support of former university president Dr. R. Gerald Turner and his incredible board. They fought hard to land the Bush Center and are the reason behind the $2 billion economic impact that the Bush Center has had on the community.
On a personal level, it has been a privilege to have a front row seat to see what makes President Bush’s leadership so unique. He is defined by the concept of “civility,” and we have made that a hallmark of our work. Regardless of position, we want the Bush Center to model civility in all respects and always respect the dignity of each person. In our minds, there is only one way to act.
I’m reminded that President Bush challenged us in his first inaugural address: “We must live up to the calling we share. Civility is not a tactic or a sentiment. It is the determined choice of trust over cynicism, of community over chaos.” I choose community as well, trying to be a contributor, not a bystander; a connector, instead of a divider; and always a resource to help others.
President Bush implored us again in his second inaugural to be “citizens, not spectators.” In this, the Bush Center can help lead the way.
I’d like to say “thanks” to the entire Bush community – it rallied around this energy private equity guy who was a plant looking to be repotted back in 2016. You all gave me the time, took my calls and offered help when asked. You followed our work and participated in our programming.
And, of course, special thanks to President and Mrs. Bush for entrusting me in this role. I have learned a lot from them both about the importance of humility and maintaining the conviction that tomorrow will be better. That sense of optimism is empowering. It has been a gift to see their principled leadership in action and help bring it to life here.
Serving this cause has been a real gift, and I know that I will miss coming to the office every day. However, I will turn my attention to being a great board member to help in any way I can.
As we look to the future with optimism, I know that Shilo will continue to build upon the tremendous foundation that we have established. He brings a unique perspective as an expert on history, political philosophy, and our democratic values. We will benefit from his energy and enthusiasm for the cause as he leads us to new heights.
I know that we are on the right track here at the Bush Center and I am optimistic that we will continue to make the world a better place.
Godspeed to all,
Ken Hersh
