Former First Lady of the United States Mrs. Laura Bush addressed the importance of education as well as tackling the challenges facing future generations before a full crowd at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center Wednesday evening as part of the University of Northern Iowa's Joy Cole Corning Distinguished Leadership Lecture Series.

Mrs. Bush’s speech touched on a variety of subjects, from her early years as an inner city teacher that formed the foundation for her passion for education and fighting poverty, to her time in the White House during Sept. 11, 2001. She also reflected on her current work with the Bush Institute, a public policy center that champions freedom in all forms, including freedom from ignorance, which she said is best combated through education.

“I believe that literacy is an essential foundation of democracy,” Mrs. Bush said. “From my own experience, I know that books have the power not just to move people as individuals, but to shape our journey as a nation.”