“America is a nation with a mission – and that mission comes from our most basic beliefs. We have no desire to dominate, no ambitions of empire. Our aim is a democratic peace – a peace founded upon the dignity and rights of every man and woman.” – President George W. Bush
I love American history, and I have a deeply-rooted respect for the leaders who have helped guide and shape our great nation. These leaders have faced incredible challenges in the name of protecting and furthering democracy and freedom. I had the honor over the years to meet many former presidents from both sides of the aisle, but I’ve formed a special relationship with President George W. Bush. He has become a mentor and a friend, and I have been fortunate enough to spend time with President Bush at his Crawford ranch and the family’s Kennebunkport home and to see the opening of his presidential library.
Over the years, President Bush has taught me what a true leader is and the importance of leading with your beliefs during tough times – when strong leadership is needed the most. I was humbled when in 2019 the Bush Presidential Center invited me to join its Executive Advisory Council. The Bush Presidential Center has a philanthropic mission of helping others through education. The Center develops the leaders of tomorrow so they can go on to solve the world’s greatest challenges. It is this focus on helping the next generation of leaders that drew my interest in serving on the Center’s Executive Advisory Council. This group of leaders in business, public service and non-profit work to advise and support the Bush Center’s strategic direction and its national goals.
As leaders, it is our responsibility to help the next generation. I have been fortunate to have mentors like President Bush and so many others along the way. Now, whether through the Bush Center or in my role at Starkey, I have the opportunity to pass along those lessons of servant leadership to others. Furthermore, I am honored to be a small part of history and to help further the legacy of a man I admire and respect tremendously.
