Commencement Addresses

Laura Bush ’68

May 16, 2009

“SMU's proud history and ongoing tradition of excellence are two reasons why George and I are so glad SMU is home to the George W. Bush Presidential Center. We look forward to the partnerships that will develop between the Bush Institute and many of SMU's schools.”

"The bonds formed at SMU are strong, and no matter how many years you’ve been away, I hope that you'll find, like I have, that coming back to SMU feels like coming home. That is why I am so happy that George and I will spend the rest of our lives working here on the SMU campus at the Bush Library and Institute.”

• Read a transcript of her address

President George W. Bush

May 16, 2015 (SMU’s 100th Spring Commencement Convocation)

“Your SMU degree will open the door to a wide variety of career options. Millions will never have had this opportunity. SMU has laid a foundation so you can reason, and continue to learn throughout your life. It has given you the tools to be productive citizens.” 

• Read a transcript of his address
• View introduction and President G.W. Bush’s May Commencement address
• View compilation video of national coverage of the speech