AMHERST, N.Y. – Daemen College has named Dr. Ida Gibson as the college’s first chief diversity officer as part of the institution’s continuing commitment to advance diversity and inclusion on campus. Her appointment was effective Jan. 2.

In this new role, Gibson will lead the college’s efforts to create and sustain a campus culture that embraces and promotes diversity and inclusion. She will serve as a key advisor and advocate, and will lead in developing the vision for Daemen’s new Center for Diversity and Inclusion.

As a member of the college’s senior leadership, Gibson will work closely with Daemen President Gary Olson and Dr. Greg Nayor, vice president for strategic initiatives, and other senior leaders to enhance the college’s efforts in diversity and inclusion and to set long-term goals.

“This newly created campus role is integral to strengthening Daemen’s diversity and inclusion initiatives and underscores our commitment to fostering a truly welcoming and inclusive campus community for our students, faculty, and staff,” said Olson. “We are confident that Dr. Gibson has the vision, expertise, and skills to lead us forward toward our goals for inclusive excellence.”

Gibson’s elevation from her most recent position at Daemen as director of diversity and inclusion to the newly created chief diversity officer role is essential to building on the college’s efforts in campus diversity and inclusion and for institutional planning in this area.

“Dr. Gibson serving in this new role will be key to leading our strategic initiative to advance efforts that will create an environment where all members of the Daemen community can live, learn, and thrive,” said Nayor. “I am excited to have the opportunity to partner with Dr. Gibson on this work.”

Prior to joining Daemen in 2019, Gibson was director of grants management in the Office of the City Administrator for the District of Columbia Government, and managed policy and program decisions, research, and projects for the Richmond City Council.

Gibson earned a doctorate in higher education administration from Jackson State University, a master’s degree in public administration from Savannah State University, and a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Georgia.

Her research interests and areas of teaching are in talent management, diversity initiatives, cultural competency, equity and access in public policy, and minority women in politics.

A native of LaGrange, Ga., Gibson resides in Buffalo.