Gloria J. Gibson grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois. Her parents moved to the area from Mississippi and Alabama during the Great Migration. They instilled in her a love of education and service. After graduating from East St. Louis Senior High School (East Side), she attended Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville where she became the first member of her family to receive bachelor’s and master’s degrees. After serving as a public school teacher in Alton, Illinois, she received a doctorate in Folklore and Ethnomusicology with a focus in cultural studies from Indiana University-Bloomington. While at IU Dr. Gibson served as a professor and also held various administrative roles including Associate Vice Chancellor for Multicultural Affairs.

Over the next twenty years, Gloria worked as an educator and administrator at several institutions: Dean of the College of Humanities & Social Sciences (Arkansas State University), Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs (University of Northern Iowa), Provost & Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs (Morgan State University) and President (Northeastern Illinois University). Always at the forefront of her career was advocacy for students, especially students of color. Gibson’s longstanding focus was to provide access and opportunity to all students and to inspire them to understand higher education can change the trajectory of one’s life.

Gloria enjoys practicing yoga, gardening, walking and “body pump” strength training. She also enjoys spending time with her two adult sons, brother and his family.