The UT Tower will be darkened Wednesday, December 5 with the number 41 lighted in the windows to celebrate the life and legacy of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush.

Earlier in the day, the university observed a moment of silence followed by the hourly Tower bell chime and a special concert performed on the Carillon.

“President Bush led with the clarity of his convictions and he never lost the spirit of sacrifice that carried him across oceans as a teenager to fight for freedom in World War II. He moved to Texas after the war and laid deep roots here. He loved this state and reflected its spirit in his strong, principled leadership,” said President Gregoy L. Fenves in a message to campus.

Many of his children and family members earned degrees at UT, including his son Jeb, his daughter-in-law Laura and his grandchildren, Jenna and George P. In 1990, President Bush delivered the commencement address at our university. He spoke passionately about freedom, liberty and what he called “the personal side of democracy.” And he ended with a call to action directed at our graduates: “Whatever you do, live a life of adventure and meaning so brilliant that, like a Roman candle, it lights up the world. Dazzle us. Astonish us. Be extraordinary.”

“Fitting advice from a man who was just that — extraordinary,” Fenves said.

Read President Gregory L. Fenves’ full message remembering President Bush here.