When Texas A&M students and faculty were informed of President Barack Obama's invitation to Aggieland, many worried his first visit to Texas would be marked with disrespect and misconduct. We were concerned picket signs and politics would replace traditional Aggie values of integrity and respect. Overall, however, true Aggie nature succeeded in welcoming the president and highlighting this University's core values.
Prior to the event, former President George H.W. Bush and other leaders emphasized the non-political nature of the forum. Thus, A&M was honored to be able to welcome the president to a campus that promotes community service and activism. While protestors said they were not objecting to the forum, their behavior mirrors the right to free speech.
Two days before the event, Bush released a letter to the media, calling on Aggies to act like Aggies. "This will be an important national moment, and a moment for Texas A&M to shine in the global spotlight as it always does," he wrote. "I sincerely hope and believe it will serve as a point of Aggie pride for many years to come."
While many of the signs blanketing Spence Park could be deemed as offensive, we are grateful protestors chose to present themselves and their cause in a civilized manner. Inside Rudder Auditorium Aggie whoops and cheers greeted the president as he stepped onto the stage and his "Howdy" was met with a thunderous "Howdy" in return. Thus, congratulations A&M for making Obama's visit to A&M a visit worthy of the "global spotlight."
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