It was a day of celebrating the legacy of two people who served their country, led their community and enriched Loma Linda University. On Nov. 28, LLU dedicated the Jerry L. Pettis congressional papers and the Shirley N. Pettis congressional papers that were donated by Shirley N. Pettis-Roberson.

“Loma Linda has been a special place to Jerry and me, and I’m so honored that this great university will house the joint record of our congressional service,” said Pettis-Roberson.

The day began with a dedication program held during the university student convocation. About 2,000 people attended the event at University church, including special guests former first lady Barbara Bush and Representative Jerry Lewis of the 41st Congressional District.

Richard H. Hart, M.D., Dr.P.H., chancellor of LLU, noted, “The remarkable gift of the congressional papers and assorted memorabilia from the Honorable Jerry Pettis and Shirley Pettis will give our generation and future generations the privilege of remembering and marveling. For indeed these are ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives as they moved comfortably between our local community and its issues and the highest reaches of government.”

Jerry Pettis organized the University Councilors. That group has since provided leadership and financial support for such projects as the Drayson Center, the Chan Shun complex and the Centennial Complex, which is currently under construction. In fact, Jerry Pettis initiated the publication of the University’s current flagship publication, Scope.

Pettis-Roberson was the founding chair of the Children’s Hospital Foundation Board and founding member of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild. She has also served as a member of the university and medical center boards of trustees and as a councilor. The Shirley N. Pettis Award established by Children’s Hospital was named in her honor to acknowledge the contribution of individuals who model her outstanding dedication to children.

Bush expressed how honored she was to speak, since she and Pettis-Roberson have been friends for so many years. She continued to disclose her insights on life.

“While I may not have served in Congress myself or been a CEO of a large company,” said Bush, “I would like to share with you some of the things I have learned, which I feel define a successful life. Remember that includes 82 years of life, 62 years of marriage to George Bush … five wars, four dress sizes…” The audience roared in laughter. “That’s not funny!” replied Bush.

B. Lyn Behrens, president of LLU, presented Pettis-Roberson with the President Medallion.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Bush summed up the day: “It’s amazing that this university will house the papers of not one but two widely respected individuals across the political spectrum. They were both committed to serving with integrity and sound judgment. And in their careers, they showed a commitment to equal justice and faithful adherence to the Constitution and the laws of the land. It seems safe to say that these papers have found their perfect home.”