Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. Bar Association

Born on December 17, 1926, in Coconut Grove, Florida from Bahamian descendants, Thelma Gibson began her notable career in nursing in 1947, becoming a registered nurse with a specialty in operating techniques. She pursued her education at prestigious institutions such as Saint Agnes School of Nursing at Saint Augustine’s College, Florida A&M University, Catholic University in Washington, D.C., and the University of Miami, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing education in 1959. Despite the era’s racial barriers, Gibson made substantial contributions to healthcare and nursing education.

In 1984, she founded the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Dade County, and in August 1997, she served as Miami’s interim City Commissioner. Gibson has been recognized with numerous awards for her advocacy in social justice and community well-being. Now 92, she continues to influence as a trustee emerita at the University of Miami and serves on various prestigious committees, maintaining a legacy of excellence and service.