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Issue date: 4/16/07 Section: Campus News

U.S. First Lady Laura Bush visited the TSU campus for the Helping America's Youth Regional Conference on April 11-12.(TSU PUBLIC RELATIONS/John CROSS)

Laura Bush listens to presenters with President Melvin N. Johnson.TSU PUBLIC RELATIONS/John CROSS)

First Lady Laura Bush made a stop to TSU's main campus as part of the Helping America's Youth Regional Conference hosted by the university on April 11-12.

In 2005, during the presidential State of the Union address, George W. Bush announced a White House initiative to engage adults in helping youth.

With an emphasis on helping young boys, the program helps young people stay on the right track, set high goals and develop the skills and confidence they need to achieve.

TSU President Melvin N. Johnson said the university presented itself as a very attractive place for the third regional conference to be held because of its involvement in youth activities and focus on service learning.

"To have the First Lady here is not only exciting for the campus, but the entire state of Tennessee," Johnson said, adding that 11 different states were represented at the conference.

For the last two years, Bush, who is a former teacher, has served as the leader of Helping America's Youth.

Bush said she believes that the challenges that youths face are far different than those faced by youths a generation ago.

"Drugs and gangs, predators on the Internet, violence on television and in real life are just are some of the negative influences present every where," Bush said.

During her address, Bush referenced several programs that follow the White House initiative for Helping America's Youth.
Organizations, such as the Appalachian Higher Education Network, Café Reconcile, and Operation Purple, are all programs that aid in the Bushes' effort.

"Adults, especially parents, should be reminded that they teach their children healthy behavior by their own good example," Bush said, noting how she has seen how adults can make a difference in the lives of young people.

"(TSU) is so proud to be a part of this initiative," Johnson said.
He also said the conference is coupled with the university's mission for Helping America's Youth through programs like service learning.

Asha King, a sophomore elementary education major from Clarksville, Tenn., and member of the 4-H club, said she took an active role in the conference by serving as hostess.
"It's a conference to empower youth and strength to their leadership," King said.•

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