James W. Gibson Symposium Scholarship

The James W. Gibson Symposium Scholarship offers one recipient each year the opportunity to attend the TMCA Symposium without cost (a $150 value). Each year’s recipient will be recognized at the TMCA Symposium for which a symposium scholarship is received.

TMCA established this annual scholarship to be given in honor of Dr. James W. Gibson, J.D., one of the founders of the organization. Dr. Gibson served as TMCA’s first Secretary until the year before his death. A tireless proponent of mediator professionalism, and a man of great intellect, wisdom, and creativity, Jim assumed an active role in the creation and leadership of TMCA. Dr. Gibson was a dedicated educator and member of the staff and faculty of Sam Houston State University. The James W. Gibson Endowed Scholarship Fund honors his life, his accomplishments, and his service to the mediation profession. The James W. Gibson Fund also helps fund TMCA's Mediation Benchbook.

Each recipient is someone who is beginning his or her journey into the mediation field, but who has shown the dedication of Dr. Gibson to dispute resolution. Most recipients have demonstrated talent, integrity, and leadership in dispute resolution courses, competitions, and student activities. The person need not be a student.

The initial scholarship was given in 2009 prior to Dr. Gibson’s death, and has been given annually at the TMCA Symposium.