The Story of U.S.

Ana Rodriguez -- SMU Cox Latino Leadership Initiative

Ana Rodriguez, Managing Director of the SMU Cox School of Business Latino Leadership Initiative, shares her story as the daughter of Peruvian and Mexican immigrants -- and how she's working to provide opportunities for other first-generation Americans in the Dallas area.RelatedSMU Cox School of Business Latino Leadership InitiativeImmigration reform at the George W. Bush Institute

Jesse Iwuji -- NASCAR Driver and Lieutenant Commander

This episode is supported by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.Jesse Iwuji, NASCAR driver and Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserves, learned his work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit from his Nigerian-born parents. After playing football for the U.S. Naval Academy, Jesse deployed on active duty -- and returned home ready to hustle just as his parents did.RelatedImmigration policy reform at the George W. Bush Institute

Ali Noorani -- President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum

This episode is supported by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.Ali Noorani, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum, grew up in California after his parents immigrated from Pakistan.  He shares the stories of the moments in his life that made him passionate about immigration and immigration policy and discusses how to build coalitions on polarizing topics.RelatedNational Immigration ForumImmigration Reform at the Bush Institute

Gus Constantellis -- Comedian

This episode is supported by the Carnegie Corporation of New York. Comedian Gus Constantellis brings his Greek immigrant heritage to his act on stage and online.  The native New Yorker reflects on his upbringing surrounded by Greek culture and family and shares stories from his rock and roll-loving father and Greek-speaking mother.RelatedGus Constantellis on InstagramImmigration Reform at the George W. Bush Institute 

Anita McBride -- Former Chief of Staff to Mrs. Laura Bush

Anita McBride served three in presidential administrations: Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and and George W. Bush -- and through each of them, she carried her Italian heritage close to her heart.  She shares the stories of her family, including when her father's immigrant journey came full circle visiting his daughter in the White House.RelatedImmigration at the George W. Bush InstituteGigi at the White House