Historical Perspective of Public Policy and its impact on Race in America

Joe Gibbons was born in Harlem, New York City. He received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology/General Studies from Calvin College in Grand Rapids Michigan, and a master’s degree in Public Administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the City University of New York. He has been a resident of Florida since 1994.

He spent 8 years with IBM in sales and management positions and owned and operated 4 computer stores in the State of Michigan. He spent 6 years as President and General Manager of NER Data Products of Canada, a computer peripheral manufacturing company. He also spent seven years with Ackerman LLP, a leading U. S. law firm, as a Public Policy Advisor. He is the President/CEO of the Gibbons Consulting Group and a Board Member of FARE (Floridians for Affordable and Reliable Energy).

Joe Gibbons was elected to the Florida House of Representatives 1n 2006. He served as the Chair of The Florida Legislative Black Caucus and the Democratic Minority Pro Tempore. Prior to his election to the Florida House of Representatives, he served one term on the Hallandale Beach City Commission and was a member of the Broward County Planning Council. He has also served as the Vice-Chair of the Florida Democratic Party. He is married to Ava Parker, President of Palm Beach State College and they have 11 year old twins.