Laura Bush

	Laura Bush 2012.jpg Bush in 2012
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Laura Bush portrait

Laura Lane Welch Bush (born November 4, 1946) is an American educator and former First Lady of the United States. She served as the First Lady from 2001 to 2009 during the presidency of her husband, George W. Bush. Prior to this, she was the First Lady of Texas from 1995 to 2000.

Early life and education[edit | edit source]

Laura Bush was born in Midland, Texas, to Harold Welch and Jenna Louise Hawkins Welch. She attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education. She later obtained a Master of Library Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Career[edit | edit source]

Before becoming First Lady, Laura Bush worked as a teacher and librarian. She taught at public schools in Dallas and Houston and worked as a librarian at the Houston Public Library and the Austin Independent School District.

First Lady of Texas[edit | edit source]

As the First Lady of Texas, Laura Bush focused on issues related to education and literacy. She established the Texas Book Festival in 1995, which continues to be a significant event promoting literacy and reading.

First Lady of the United States[edit | edit source]

During her tenure as First Lady of the United States, Laura Bush was an advocate for education, women's health, and human rights. She launched the "Ready to Read, Ready to Learn" initiative, which aimed to improve early childhood education. She also supported the No Child Left Behind Act and worked to promote global literacy through the UNESCO.

Post-First Lady activities[edit | edit source]

After leaving the White House, Laura Bush has continued to be active in various charitable and educational causes. She co-founded the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas, which includes a library and museum dedicated to the Bush presidency.

Personal life[edit | edit source]

Laura Bush married George W. Bush on November 5, 1977. They have twin daughters, Barbara and Jenna, born in 1981. The Bush family resides in Dallas, Texas.