The University of Texas Medical Branch community was saddened to learn of the passing of President George H.W. Bush on Nov. 30. As a military veteran, public servant, diplomat and our nation’s 41st president, he set a powerful example of what it means to serve a cause greater than oneself.  

Governor Greg Abbott has declared that tomorrow—Wednesday, December 5, 2018—will be an official Day of Mourning in Texas.  The Governor has encouraged Texans to “gather, assemble, and pay their respects to the memory of George Herbert Walker Bush through ceremonies in homes, businesses, public buildings, schools, places of worship, or other appropriate places for public expression of grief and remembrance.”   

As an academic medical center, UTMB’s health sciences education, research and patient care mission must remain operational for the people we serve, even as we mourn the loss of a great statesman, leader and fellow Texan. Therefore, our schools, clinics, hospitals and administrative offices will remain open tomorrow. We will honor President Bush’s memory with a moment of silence at noon. Please use that moment to reflect on his lifelong service to our state and nation.

Faculty and staff who wish to attend off-campus observances for President Bush this week are asked to consult with their supervisors to arrange related vacation leave and ensure essential functions are covered. 

Thank you for your dedication to others in fulfilling our vital mission. And thank you for joining me in expressing sincere condolences to the Bush family.

Dr. David L. Callender
President