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Barbara Bush Honored in Special Way at Local University

Columbia, SC (WLTX) - One school in the Midlands has a special way of honoring former First Lady Barbara Bush.

Mrs. Bush, a woman known for her down-to-earth personality.

Columbia College President Carol Moore remembers her as a role model for America.

"She certainly did a lot for the country and was a very gracious and lovely person. She came across as a very strong independent thinker. I think in that sense she was inspiring to a lot of women," said Moore.

So much so, that impact was felt here at the college. The school felt naming a building after her would be a fitting tribute.

"This is the Barbara Bush Science and Technology Center. It was named after the former First Lady," said Moore.

Bob and Janice McNair of Columbia were friends of the Bush family and wanted to have her name honored at Columbia College.

Janice McNair was a graduate of Columbia College in 1959.

Moore believes that the building being named after Mrs. Bush means a lot to the all-girls school.

“One of our strongest majors here is biology so that’s kind of important and it links her to the strength of women in science,” explained Moore.

Back in 1997, Barbara Bush traveled to the Capital City for its dedication where the building still stands today.

Joye Hipp flips through a scrapbook remembering her special time with the former First Lady during the building's dedication and again eight years later.

"Very personable and down-to-earth. Just like everybody's grandmother. Second time I met her was in graduation in 2005. I had the privilege of actually robing her and getting her ready to march in the processional," explained Hipp.

Hipp and Moore believe her legacy will last in Columbia for years to come while her building inspires students every day.

"The best memory I have is just seeing all the people of gathering in one place and how gracious she was to spend so much time with us that day. It's a good memory,” said Hipp.

Moore says Mrs. Bush will always be a special person to the college.

“We have very fond thoughts and memories of Barbara Bush,” said Moore. “She certainly was an incredibly dynamic woman.”

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