Overheard at the Bush Center

As part of the Engage at the Bush Center series, presented by NexPoint, the Bush Center hosted highly acclaimed author and biographer Walter Isaacson in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. In reflecting on his latest book, Isaacson discussed the Declaration of Independence’s most defining line and how it has shaped our ideals and continues to guide our ongoing pursuit of liberty and equality.

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Watch the Engage program

View the Bush Center America 250 events and exhibits

Recently, the Bush Center held the ninth Forum on Leadership focused on the theme The Heart of America.  Forum on Leadership is a landmark gathering which develops, recognizes, and celebrates leadership by bringing together notable voices for in-depth discussions on today’s pressing issues. 

In his welcoming remarks, Shilo Brooks, President and CEO of the George W. Bush Center, explored what is at the center of the heart of America. 

In this conversation, New York Times opinion columnist David French and the Bush Institute’s Anne Wicks discussed freedom of expression and how robust protection for all viewpoints is essential for a free society. 

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Watch the 2026 Forum on Leadership: The Heart of America

Read the Bush Institute series, Democracy is a Verb

Recently, the Bush Center held the ninth Forum on Leadership focused on the theme The Heart of America.  Forum on Leadership is a landmark gathering which develops, recognizes, and celebrates leadership by bringing together notable voices for in-depth discussions on today’s pressing issues. 

Panelists Mark Updegrove, President and CEO of the LBJ Foundation; Michelle Ferrari, Director and Producer at 42nd Parallel Films; and Richie Butler, Senior Pastor at St. Luke Community United Methodist Church; reflect on hard-fought democratic milestones achieved in our history that have made our country and its people more free. 

Also featured is a testimonial from Mark Reilly, President and CEO of The Washington Tattoo and Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program Class of 2025.

Related: 

Watch the 2026 Forum on Leadership: The Heart of America

View the Bush Center's America 250 celebrations

Recently, the Bush Center held the ninth Forum on Leadership focused on the theme The Heart of America. Forum on Leadership is a landmark gathering that develops, recognizes, and celebrates leadership by bringing together notable voices for in-depth discussions on today’s pressing issues.

In this panel discussion with Jeff Reinbold, President and CEO of the National Parks Foundation, and Grace Lee, Executive Director of National Park Trust, they shared how our national parks honor our history and inspire the next generation.

Related: 

Watch the 2026 Forum on Leadership: The Heart of America

See special exhibit, Opening the Vault

Ellen and Clayton Kershaw joined the Bush Center for an inspiring conversation on the power of sports to lift communities, drawing on lessons from Clayton’s storied career with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the couple’s deeply rooted commitment to service. In this Engage at the Bush Center, presented by NexPoint discussion, the Kershaws shared stories of baseball, faith, and family, and reflected on how sports can unite, strengthen, and transform lives.

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Watch the Engage at the Bush Center event

Plan a visit to special exhibit, Game Changer: United by Sports, presented by Garry Weber