The Center for Nonprofits & Philanthropy at the Bush School of Government and Public Service hosted a Lunch and Learn session with Mr. Pierce Bush, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star (BBBS). Pierce Bush, grandson of President George H. W. Bush and Barbara Pierce Bush, reflected on his grandparents’ legacy and his own life experiences. He was only two years old when his grandfather became the 41st President of the United States. He spoke of the many memories he has of their time together after President and Mrs. Bush returned to private life.
In 2009, Pierce Bush began his own public service journey with BBBS as a volunteer mentor to his little brother, Jaylyn. After completing his undergraduate degree, he entered the field of private equity and was appointed to the BBBS Board of Directors in early 2012. Later that same year, he joined BBBS as full-time staff, focusing on increasing the organization’s revenue. Pierce Bush became the CEO of BBBS in August 2015 and instituted a grand vision for his team to chase after—to provide every child in Texas who needs and wants one with an adult mentor.
He spoke of his little brother, Jaylyn, in a heartfelt way. Along with reflecting on the variety of events they’ve attended, he was also clear on how much he has learned from Jaylyn. He commented, “Just like many of the adult volunteers in our program, I too have received so much in return from the relationship I have with Jaylyn.”
Many Bush School students said it was one of their favorite events since arriving here. Jennifer Peak, nonprofit management student, commented, “Pierce was raw; his candid honesty allowed him to laugh at this own jokes and even tear up when talking about his grandparents.” The attendees thoroughly enjoyed the session and could feel the passion Pierce Bush has for continuing the Bush family legacy and his work in youth mentoring.
