Bio of Shirley Gibson, Mayor

Mayor Shirley Gibson is the First Mayor of the City of Miami Gardens; the third largest city in Miami-Dade County, Florida and the thirty-third (33rd.) municipality to be incorporated; with a population of more than 109, 000; 79 percent of whom are African Americans.  This blossoming new city located in the northern portion of Miami-Dade County is a Mecca for commerce, finance, education and recreation.  In 1996, Shirley Gibson    had a vision of political self-determination and civic empowerment for her community.  Through doubt, hostility, setbacks and naysayers, Ms. Gibson successfully led a dedicated group of her neighbors in creating the largest predominately African-American municipality in the state of Florida.  Mayor Gibson has a diverse background in the public and private sector.  She was first elected to public office in 1996; where she served on the Miami Dade County Community Council Three and was elected for two consecutive terms.  She also served on the Miami Dade’s Democratic Party Executive Committee.   

Mayor Gibson served as chairperson of the North Dade Municipal Advisory Committee, and the Committee to Incorporate the City of Miami Gardens.  She is a retired sixteen year veteran of the Miami Dade Police Department.  In addition to fifteen years as an entrepreneur, Mayor Gibson is skilled in community organizing. She is a professional negotiator, using a collaborative approach to incorporate diversity, inclusiveness, and responsibility for effective outcomes.

 A graduate from North-Dade Junior-Senior High School in the early 60’s; she later earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Pastoral Ministry and an honorary Ph.D. in Sacred Theology.  Mayor Gibson is an extraordinary individual and leader.  Her role in establishing the state’s largest Black municipality is truly incomparable among her peers, male or female and her highly visible struggle has provided local inspiration to every female leader in South Florida.  Her leadership, determination and selflessness, as evidenced by the recognition she has received, provide a template for all men and women aspiring to better their community.