Former governor Mike Huckabee, whose latest book outlines his distinct views and values, will give the College Republicans address for the Assembly Series. “From Hope to Higher Ground: 12 STOPS for Restoring America’s Greatness,” the title of his book and his talk, will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 4 in Graham Chapel on Washington University’s Danforth Campus. The event is free and open to the public.
Huckabee became governor of Arkansas in 1996, following the resignation of Jim Guy Tucker. Easily winning the 1998 gubernatorial election, he went on to win yet another four-year term.
Just as Bill Clinton, Huckabee hails from Hope, a small town where growing up included learning a faith-based code of ethics. These values and beliefs are reflected in his fifth book, From Hope to Higher Ground. Huckabee reviews the state of the nation with an eye toward stopping what he sees as the most damaging assumptions and behaviors affecting Americans today.
Huckabee’s public service career began in 1993 when he became lieutenant governor in a special election; he was elected to the position in 1994.
During his tenure, Huckabee was known for his deep commitment to health care and educational reforms, developing public policy for the latter as chairman of the Education Commission of the States. As governor, he instituted state-wide initiatives to create improved programs and expand available college scholarships. His “Smart Start” and “Smart Step” programs that emphasized math and reading skills have significantly raised test scores for Arkansas’ K-8 schools. Until recently, Huckabee also headed the National Governors Association.
On the health front, Huckabee received national recognition after being diagnosed with type II diabetes. His efforts, which included losing 110 pounds and becoming a marathon runner, are outlined in his fourth book, Quit Digging Your Grave with a Knife and Fork. He is dedicated to helping Americans adopt a more healthful lifestyle.
Before entering public office, Huckabee was a Baptist minister and religious leader. An avid outdoorsman, he also was influential in the passage of Arkansas’ amendment to provide revenue for its state park system.
In addition to the two books already noted, Huckabee is the author of Living Beyond Your Lifetime: How to Be Intentional about the Legacy You Leave, and Character Is the Issue: How People with Integrity Can Revolutionize America.