Brian Gibson honored by Rice Board of Trustees

The Rice Board of Trustees honored Brian Gibson, associate dean of undergraduates, at its May 10 meeting for the “extraordinary level of commitment” he has provided students.

Brian Gibson (right), who oversees the Office of Academic Advising, the Center for Career Development and the Center for Teaching Excellence, was nominated for recognition by Dean of Undergraduates John Hutchinson (left).

Gibson, who oversees the Office of Academic Advising, the Center for Career Development and the Center for Teaching Excellence, was nominated for recognition by Dean of Undergraduates John Hutchinson. Gibson and his wife, Alana. serve as head resident fellows at McMurtry College and previously served as resident associates at Sid Richardson and Martel colleges.

Hutchinson praised Gibson for serving as his “right hand” in matters concerning the residential colleges, including academic programming, advising and student behavioral issues.

“In every one of these capacities, Brian has excelled and made major contributions to the quality of student life in academics, in personal development and in co-curricular programming,” Hutchinson wrote.

Hutchinson described Gibson as an “extraordinary teacher and mentor,” referencing the packed courses Gibson teaches in kinesiology.

“He teaches leadership and leads by example, he teaches individual responsibly and again leads by example and he encourages peer education,” Hutchinson wrote. “

Three directors under Gibson’s supervision — Aliya Bhimani (academic advising), Nicole Van Den Heuvel (career development) and Josh Eyler (teaching excellence) — and McMurtry College resident associate Bradley Blunt co-authored a letter supporting the nomination. The group praised his oversight as well as his dedication and outstanding commitment to the residential college system.

“Brian is the type of leader and mentor who listens deeply, provides guidance, asks the right questions and generously shares his knowledge,” they wrote. “His work ethic and acumen inspire and motivate those who come across his path to push themselves to learn more and do more to make a positive impact.”

During his 22 years at Rice, Gibson has been named a Centennial Star, has won three prestigious George R. Brown Awards for Superior Teaching and has received the Student Association Mentor Recognition Award.