A former "first daughter" was the speaker at the College of the Ozarks' Fall Convocation last week.
Jenna Bush Hager is a journalist and television news personality. She is the co-host of Today with Hoda and Jenna, a part of the NBC News program The Today Show. She is a published author, and along with twin sister Barbara, has the distinction of being the daughter and the granddaughter of former United States Presidents. Jenna is the daughter of George W. Bush, the 43rd United States President, and his wife Laura Bush. She is also the granddaughter of George H.W. Bush, who served as our country's 41st President.
Married with three young children, Bush shared her thoughts with those present at the convocation last Thursday. Bush spoke on her memories of living in the White House, including the love and support she and her sister received from their parents and their grandparents.
Bush Hager recalled that she and sister Barbara were upset when their father told them he planned to run for President, noting that she and Barbara burst out in tears, telling him he was ruining their lives. The twins were 16 at the time. By the time Bush geared up for a reelection campaign, then 22-year-old Jenna and Barbara decided to help with their father's campaign.
"We got all that time with our dad, which most adult kids don't get," noted Jenna.
Jenna spoke fondly of her grandparents, recalling their humble attitudes and constant support.
Bush Hager also spoke on the relationship she shared with her sister and how they were able to support each other, as first daughters, together.
Bush Hager was the most recent in a long list of family members who have visited College of the Ozarks. Both of her parents, her grandfather and grandmother have all visited Hard Work U for special convocations throughout the years.
Jenna was joined on stage by Mary Millben, who performed the National Anthem and God Bless America. She has a 15-year career of performing patriotic music for U.S. Presidents, foreign dignitaries and international royalty.
Bush Hager was introduced by College of the Ozarks President Brad Johnson, and the event convocation was moderated by Erin Hayes-Dennis, Professor of the Practice of Journalism, who asked Bush Hager questions throughout the evening.
A special part of the convocation included C of O President Johnson and Bush Hager presenting The Legacy Award to General Terrence R. Dake, an alumnus from The School of the Ozarks. Dake had an outstanding 34-year career in the Marine Corps, serving as the pilot of the Marine One helicopter that transports the U.S. President. He also served as the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps. Dake served on the College's Board of Trustees for 24 years and currently serves as Trustee Emeritus.
The evening convocation included a performance by the College of the Ozarks Concert Band. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by C of O Senior Si Martin, and the invocation was given by senior Adia Lofgren. Students also presented Bush Hager with gifts, including a handmade basket, and stained glass pieces.
Bush Hager left the audience with this advice, "Go and live your dreams and don't stay so married to one plan. Dream big. You can have an extraordinary life."