Aug. 25, 2005

Director of Athletics Scott Street announced on Thursday (Aug. 25) that Garry Gibson has been named Assistant Athletic Director for Academic Affairs and Student Services for the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics at The University of Texas-Pan American.

"We are excited to have Garry join our staff at The University of Texas-Pan American. He brings a wealth of experience in the academic setting and will serve as a positive role model for our student-athletes as they prepare for their future after graduation," said Street.

"My wife, Hala, and I are looking forward to working with the student-athletes, coaches, faculty and staff as well as the community. I appreciate the opportunity given to me by Scott Street and the entire athletic department," said Gibson.

Gibson comes to the Rio Grande Valley after serving as the Senior Academic Coordinator in the Student Athletics Division at Vanderbilt University since August of 1996. In his role at VU, he planned and implemented a strategic map towards graduation for student-athletes; facilitated plans to ensure successful and weighted athletic/academic balance and provided comprehensive evaluations to head coaches/senior administration outlining academic progress for all VU student-athletes.

The newly-named Assistant Athletic Director for Academic Affairs and Student Services also managed mentoring programs, which helped new student-athletes adjust to campus life, academic milestones, athletic and academic support as well as general support. He served as the on-site guide for football, men's and women's basketball, baseball, men's and women's tennis, men's and women's golf, women's soccer and lacrosse teams. Vanderbilt student-athletes possessed a 97 percent graduate rate during Gibson's tenure.

Prior to joining the Vanderbilt University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, Gibson retired as a First Sergeant in the Marine Corps where he held responsibilities with the State Department as well as Presidential Support under the guidance of the George H. Bush, the 41st President of the United States of America.

In the Marine Corps Infantry, Gibson served as a Drill Instructor, Scout Sniper Instructor and Naval ROTC Instructor. During his time in the Marines, he received the Meritorious Service Award, two Navy Commendation Medals, two Joint Service Achievement Medals (which were awarded while serving with then-Secretary of Defense and current-Vice President Dick Chaney), the Navy Marine Achievement Medal as well as six Marine Corps Good Conduct Award.

Gibson has given several presentations during his career, including "A Few Good Men" as a Panel Member with University Clergy and Faculty; "What Now" as a Guest Speaker at a Local High School Graduation and "Experiences with Presidential Support" at the Political Science Lecture at Vanderbilt University.

Gibson replaces Tish Brewer and will begin his duties with The University of Texas-Pan American Department of Intercollegiate Athletics on September 12, 2005.

UTPA Sports Information