William Gibson (NAACP activist)

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William F. Gibson (November 23, 1933 – May 2, 2002)[1] was an African-American dentist who served as chair of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) from 1985 to 1995.

William Gibson
Chair of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
In office
1985–1995
Preceded byKelly Alexander Sr.
Succeeded byMyrlie Evers-Williams
Personal details
Born(1933-11-23)November 23, 1933
Greenville, South Carolina, U.S.
DiedMay 2, 2002(2002-05-02) (aged 68)
Greenville, South Carolina, U.S.
EducationNorth Carolina A&T State University (BA)
Meharry Medical College (DMD)

Gibson was a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and Meharry Medical College. He served as president of the NAACP's regional branch in Greenville, South Carolina before succeeding Margaret Bush Wilson as national chairperson. As chair, he encouraged voter registration and worked to increase economic opportunities for African Americans. In 1995 NAACP board members voted 30–29 to replace Gibson with Myrlie Evers-Williams, widow of Medgar Evers.

Gibson died of cancer at the age of 69 in Greenville on May 2, 2002.[2]

References

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  1. ^ "William Gibson, Dentist and Controversial Activist", African American Registry.
  2. ^ DeWayne Wickham, "NAACP chief led despite scandal", Opinion, USA Today, May 6, 2002.
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