Our Executive Director, Shilo Brooks, will be leaving the James Madison Program to become President and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Concurrent with his appointment at the Bush Center, Brooks will join SMU as Professor of the Practice in the Political Science Department, Senior Fellow at the Center for Presidential History, and Senior Fellow at the Tower Center for Public Policy and International Affairs. He will also join the Bush Foundation's Board of Directors.

“Shilo is a brilliant thinker who has developed programs that help people grasp America’s founding principles and civic responsibilities. He understands and professes the importance of leadership in our society. Shilo’s expertise in civil discourse, civic literacy, and American political thought align with the values and mission of the George W. Bush Presidential Center. The energy and intellect he will bring to our policy work and community engagement will benefit the North Texas community and beyond,” said President George W. Bush. “Laura and I are thrilled to welcome Shilo and his family back home to Texas.”

Shilo will begin his duties at the Bush Center on September 2, 2025, succeeding Ken Hersh, who will retire after nine years as President and CEO.

We thank Shilo for his service and contributions to the Madison Program, and we congratulate him and wish him every success in his new—and nationally very important—position of leadership.

Congratulations, Shilo!