Kim Gibson, Dr. Gladys I. Cruz, Luke Gibson, Donna Gibson, John Hill, Brent Gibson (L-R)
Questar III presented the family of the late Robert “Bob” Gibson with its 17th annual G. Lucius Cary Annual Service Leadership Award at its annual meeting on April 11. This was the first time in Questar III’s history that the award was presented posthumously.
The G. Lucius Cary Award is given in recognition of outstanding leadership and contributions through volunteer service – reflective of the values and beliefs of Questar III. The award is named for former Questar III board member, G. Lucius Cary.
Gibson, who passed away in July 2015, dedicated his life to public service and community involvement. He served as a Questar III board member for 22 years, including the last 14 as board president. He was also a founding member of the Tech Valley High School Operating Board, serving from its inception in 2006. Prior to this he served on the Brunswick CSD Board from 1980 to 1989, including eight years as president.
Gibson was well-known across the region and state for his enthusiasm and passion for public education. He frequently presented workshops on parliamentary procedures for new school board members and traveled to Washington, DC to advocate with state and national leaders.
He also regularly attended the annual NYSSBA convention, where he served as a delegate to the annual business meeting. In 2014, NYSSBA presented Gibson with its Everett R. Dyer Award for Distinguished School Board Service, the organization’s highest award for school board service.
Questar III Board President John Hill, who presented the award to Gibson’s wife Donna and son Brent, remembered Gibson’s passion for volunteer service.
Bob and Donna Gibson in 2014 when Bob received the Everett R. Dyer Award from NYSSBA.
“Bob had the courage to challenge existing norms when they did not serve the interests of students. Additionally, he remained tenacious in his efforts to marshal needed reforms through the change process. Bob’s work as an educational leader was defined by his sterling character and his ability to work collaboratively with others in pursuit of expanding educational attainment and excellence for all students,” said Hill.
“He really valued education, and he felt that this organization does so much for so many children that might not have the opportunity to experience so many different things that they can through this organization,” said Donna Gibson.
In memory of Bob’s love of singing, the Mendelsohn club of Albany, of which Bob was a longtime member, performed two songs at the meeting.
Questar III District Superintendent Dr. Gladys I. Cruz said Gibson was an extraordinary individual who cared deeply about our students, school districts and BOCES.
“I can’t say enough about Bob Gibson and his generosity, his kindness and his selfless giving of his time over the 22 years he served on the Questar III board. It was a true honor and privilege to know him, to admire him and to work with him and I want all of you to know how much he is truly missed,” Cruz said.
