President George H.W. Bush and Bryant President Ronald K. Machtley
The Bryant community mourns the passing of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, who received an honorary degree from Bryant in 2008.
Ronald K. Machtley's statement on the passing of President George H.W. Bush
Dec 01, 2018, by Staff Writer
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It is with deepest respect for the man and his life; dedicated to the values of character, family, and the importance of service to this nation; that we all mourn the recent loss of President George H. W. Bush ‘08H, “41.”

"With his passing the country has truly lost a leader of exceptional character and statesmanship and I have lost a friend and mentor."

It was a deep honor for me to serve as a U.S. Congressman (1989-95) under the leadership of President George H. W. Bush. With his passing the country has truly lost a leader of exceptional character and statesmanship and I have lost a friend and mentor.

I was proud to welcome the 41st President to Bryant University in 2008 to accept our Honorary Doctorate Degree and deliver our commencement address. Our paths had both included public service in the U.S. Navy and in Congress, and as a former Ambassador to China he shared my appreciation for the importance of understanding China as our nations became competitors in a global economy. Kati and I cherished the time we could know and admire the relationship and dedication of George and Barbara Bush to one another and their family in the public arena of their political life. Both were great examples of what has made families great and our nation led by sound leadership enduring. 

George H. W. Bush had the essential qualities and characteristics of leadership that we so need today as models for our young adults and the world, and as a reminder that character still matters for the individual and is important for leaders of nations.

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