University of New England

Former President George H.W. Bush’s legacy is firmly established in his home state of Texas, primarily through the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum located at Texas A&M University. The Bush story, however, cannot be fully told without an understanding of their ties to Maine. George and Barbara Bush, and three generations of their family before them, have made Kennebunkport, Maine their summer home. Not surprisingly, the national press referred to Walker’s Point as “the summer White House” during the Bush presidency. The former President calls this special place in Maine “our anchor to windward.” (Click for a letter from George and Barbara Bush.)

Although the Bush legacy is thoroughly grounded in Texas, it has yet to be secured and preserved by a distinguished institution in Maine. That role is perfectly suited to the University of New England. The connection between the Bush family and the University is a natural and multidimensional one.

First, there is the close proximity between the Bush family home and the University. George Bush spent every summer of his life in Maine with the exception of one year during World War II when he was deployed in the Pacific.

Second, and more importantly, the values and interests promoted by George and Barbara Bush are closely aligned with UNE’s core programs of study. George and Barbara Bush have committed themselves to public and volunteer service.

Even in retirement, they continue to embrace a select group of special interests, including health care, literacy, internationalism and citizenship. The University of New England shares these interests with the Bush family. UNE has developed a solid reputation as an educator of medical and health care professionals. The University has the only accredited nursing program in the nation with an international branch campus through its association with Israel College. “Citizenship” is the senior year theme within the College of Arts and Sciences.

But the former First Family and the University of New England are linked even more closely by another passion — their shared love of the sea. The former President’s ocean excursions in his boat Fidelity are legendary. He is a dedicated fisherman. The University is especially proud of its marine biology and environmental studies programs. UNE’s new Marine Science Education and Research Center is a state-of-the-art facility providing a “window to the sea.” The center also is home to the only marine animal rehabilitation facility in the nation located on a university or college campus.

The Bush Legacy Library and Bush Gallery will house material chronicling the Bush family legacy, including memorabilia on loan from the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library at Texas A&M. Particular attention will be given to the family’s New England heritage and special love affair with the coast of Maine. This collection will be of interest to scholars, local historians, community residents, and visitors to southern Maine.

The University will collaborate with Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government and Public Service for faculty exchanges, student internships and graduate study following graduation from UNE.  Future programming within the College of Arts and Sciences will reflect the Bush legacy of service and expanded study opportunities for students majoring in the humanities.

The legacy of George and Barbara Bush will be securely anchored in the George and Barbara Bush Center. The University of New England promises to be a worthy steward of their most enduring values and interests.