Former US First Lady Laura Bush joins Asian University of Women’s patron council

Former US First Lady Laura Bush will serve as a patron for the Asian University for Women or AUW in Chittagong, says the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington.

Founded in 2008, the AUW works to educate and help develop leadership among women across Asia and the Middle East.

“Laura Bush has been one of the most persistent and effective champions of girls and women and others who fall on the wrong side of privilege,” the embassy said citing AUW Chancellor Cherie Blair.

“She brings an enormous amount of compassion and dedication to her work in support of women, and she makes a significant impact … Laura Bush is the emblem of a great soul.”

Laura Bush served as the first lady from 2001 to 2009 during the administration of her husband George W Bush.

The statement quoted her as saying AUW is an example that investment in the success of women pays off and that educating women has the power to change the world.

“The inclusion of women in all aspects of society strengthens and improves the stability of their countries,” said the former US first lady.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina chairs the AUW Council of Patrons.

The university's patrons include Japanese First Lady Akie Abe, former Italian foreign minister Emma Bonino, UNESCO Director- General Irina Bokov, former Danish environment minister Lone Dybkjaer, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg Maria Teresa and former Sri Lankan president Chandrika Kumaratunga.