Dr. Mike Gibson was named an "Unsung Hero of the PEI BioAlliance" during the organization's 20th Anniversary celebration held this month in Charlottetown. The honour recognizes Gibson's significant contributions to PEI's Bioscience cluster as a leading mentor and educator for biotechnologists in PEI.
Left to right : Lauren Ledwell presents Dr. Mike Gibson with an Unsung Hero of the PEI BioAlliance award during the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the PEI BioAlliance.
Dr. Gibson has been teaching in the Bioscience Program at Holland College for over two decades. He was the leading educator behind its development in 2005 and helped shape the curriculum that has since expanded into three distinct educational pathways for students pursuing careers in biotechnology.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Gibson has inspired countless students, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in the biotech industry across PEI and the Atlantic Region. His mentorship, expertise and passion for applied science have made an indelible impact on the sector.
"Michael's contributions to the bioscience sector on PEI are far-reaching, both as an educator and an innovator developing the next generation of bioscience talent," said Lauren Ledwell, CEO of the PEI BioAlliance.
"In speaking with some of his current and former students, it's clear his impact is lasting. He has an extraordinary ability to spark a curiosity and passion of bioscience and prepare graduates who are confident, capable, and ready to join the province's growing bioscience community," she said.
For Dr. Gibson, his work as an educator was a natural extension of his passion for the opportunities presented through applied bioscience.
"Over the last 20 years, the bioscience sector has created an incredible number of great careers here on the island. Without those opportunities for our graduates, the College program would not have had the success and growth that it has", said Gibson.
"It was wonderful to see our program recognized alongside industry leaders who were so instrumental in growing the sector. While I was being honoured for getting the program started, it has grown into a team of dedicated faculty and technicians who have helped realize the vision," he said.
Gibson was among 10 individuals recognized as unsung heroes at the event.
Gibson holds a PhD in Engineering from the University of Guelph and is a Learning Manager in the Bioscience Technology program at the Prince of Wales Campus.
For more information
140 Weymouth Street
Charlottetown Prince Edward Island
Canada C1A 4Z1
www.hollandcollege.com
