Ann Dunham
Obama Presidential Center Honoree
Space Name: Ann Dunham Water Terrace | Campus Grounds
Ann Dunham, President Obama’s mother, was an anthropologist whose work encompassed expanding opportunities for women through microfinance, investing in women and girls, and the economic and rural development of Indonesia. Her belief in our common humanity shaped President Obama’s values and taught him to see the dignity in every person—a touchstone vital not only for a political career but for a life of service.
With gratitude to Obama Campaign and Administration Alumni
Legacy on Campus
Ann Dunham Water Terrace
The introspective and intimate Ann Dunham Water Terrace honors the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother. The Water Garden features a stone sculptural water created by world renowned artist and architect, Maya Lin.
Art on Campus
Explore 28 commissioned public art installations across the Center, including Seeing Through the Universe. Maya Lin’s new sculpture features a misting upright oculus and a flat “pebble” piece that fills with water and cascades over for the enjoyment of visitors.
Explore Ms. Dunham’s Story
Meet More Honorees
Through the honoree naming initiative at the Obama Presidential Center, we are partnering with our donors to celebrate a part of the history in which the Obama story is so deeply rooted by associating a named space with a hero, moment, or person "on whose shoulders we stand"—an honoree who made the Obamas’ story possible.
Meet More Honorees