Acclaimed Author and First Ladies Expert to Speak at McFaddin-Ward House Lecture Jan. 16
Beaumont, TX; Dec. 26, 2024 – Internationally recognized author and former White House staffer Anita McBride will share her extensive expertise on first ladies and the innerworkings of the White House during “First Ladies: Impact and Legacies,” a free public lecture presented by the McFaddin-Ward House on Thursday, Jan. 16, at 6:30 p.m. in the museum’s Visitor Center Lecture Hall (located at 1906 Calder Avenue in Beaumont).
McBride’s presentation will feature insights from her acclaimed book, “Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women,” which showcases the evolving role of the first lady and its historical influence on the American presidency.
“First ladies are important figures in our history and have served as a partner to the presidency,” McBride said. “Their platform is unique and influential, touching our politics, public policy and global diplomacy. From support for the military and veterans, to being champions for civil rights, to leading health and wellness and education initiatives, promoting arts and culture and leading conservation and historic preservation efforts, representing our country abroad and becoming political actors of their own, first ladies have helped effect change and left lasting legacies.”
During two decades of White House service spanning three administrations, McBride saw firsthand the unique influence of first ladies. As Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, she directed the first lady’s travels to 67 countries in four years and became one of the longest-serving women in White House history. McBride has also served in senior roles under Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush.
“Over the many years of service, the camaraderie and sense of mission and purpose amongst White House colleagues was a great professional experience,” McBride said. “The opportunity to work in the East Wing directly for a first lady was the highlight—seeing how influential and impactful this role is to our country. This front row seat to history helped inspire my professional work after the White House to tell the stories of these women and their many contributions to our nation.”
McBride currently serves as the executive-in-residence at the Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies in the American University School of Public Affairs in Washington, DC, and is a founding member of the University’s First Ladies Association for Research and Education. In 2023, she co-authored “Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women,” as well as a first of its kind textbook, “U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies” and children’s book, “First Ladies Make History,”which she co-authored with her daughter, Giovanna McBride.
McFaddin-Ward House lectures are admission-free and open to the public, but space is limited. Doors open at 6 p.m.
For those unable to attend, the lecture will be streamed live on the museum Facebook page (facebook.com/McFaddinWardHouse). The full lecture will also be available for viewing on the museum YouTube Channel (youtube.com/@mcfaddinwardhouse) and website (mcfaddin-ward.org/about/videos) after the event.
Built in 1905-1906 in the distinctive Beaux-Arts Colonial style, the McFaddin-Ward House reflects the lifestyle of the prominent family which lived in the house for 75 years. The museum features free tours, educational programming, year-round events, a carriage house, and gardens.
For more information, call 409-832-2134 or visit mcfaddin-ward.org.
