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Jeb Bush Speaks to Students About Leadership

This week, former Gov. Jeb Bush visited Westminster virtually to speak to middle school students about leadership. Student leadership members and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) members were in attendance. Eric Eikenberg '25 kicked off the event by introducing Bush to his classmates and providing a detailed account of Bush’s political career.
Bush then proceeded to speak to the students about his experience in leadership and the many lessons he learned while campaigning for governor of Florida.

His 1994 campaign against incumbent Lawton Chiles resulted in a loss, but Bush described it as one of the best learning experiences of his life. 

“The loss was the greatest thing for my personal growth because I had to pause and assess who I was as a man,” said Bush. 

He also spoke to the students about the importance of demonstrating empathy as a leader and revealed what he believes is the secret weapon to winning an election. 

“You’ve got to show your heart to people… give people the reason of why you’re running,” he added. 

Several students proceeded to ask Bush questions such as what inspired him to run for office, who were his childhood heroes and what his thoughts were on today’s political climate. In the end, he left the students with these encouraging words:

“Listen to people, join a cause greater than yourself, be fact-based, persuade people, and get out there and do it!”
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Westminster Christian School, located in Palmetto Bay, Florida, is a private, college-preparatory school for children from preschool through twelfth grade.