Nia Imani Forché Gipson is, at 27 years old, the inaugural coordinator of the Black Student Coalition at Western Washington University. “I share my full name because the first two are principles of Kwanzaa, in the Swahili language, which mean purpose and faith, respectively,” says Gipson. “These two principals have been a part of my core values for as long as I can remember.”
Gipson is no stranger to accomplishment and leading by example.
“I was born and raised in Chicago and attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where I received my B.S. in agricultural and consumer economics,” she says. “While at Illinois I served in many leadership roles, two of the most influential being innovative programming chair for the Central Black Student Union and a resident advisor for three years. It was because of my role as an RA, and my involvement in student organizations, that I decided to go into student affairs.”
After completing her undergraduate degree in Illinois, Gipson received her master’s in education leadership studies with an emphasis on college student development at Oklahoma State University. “There I served as an Assistant Residential Community Educator and continued on the career path in Residential Life when I arrived at Western in 2021,” she says. “I served as the Resident Director of Beta Gamma and COVID housing from 2021-2022 before I transitioned into my current role.”
Community Work
Gipson is often immersed in volunteerism, in one way or another.
“In my first year, I volunteered at Bunanza Bunny Rescue in Lynden,” she says. “I’ve since expanded my volunteering to include speaking engagements for local events, serving on a committee of wonderful community leaders working to bring a NAACP Chapter to Bellingham, volunteer in several capacities for Christ the King Community Church, and lend a helping hand anywhere I can. I have also given meals and made winter kits for those facing houselessness. I have the honor of continuing to engage in community work through my role at Western by hosting community celebrations for MLK Day, Juneteenth, and Black History month. Additionally, I participated in Northwest Youth Services’ first annual Healing Centered Engagement Gathering by co-presenting on navigating spaces that prolong trauma. This particular topic is important to me because I know firsthand how trauma can impact your daily life, but restorative practices can help to build resiliency and create opportunities for healing and joy.”
Outside of Work
Gipson loves bringing out her creative nature, building her skillset and making new things.
“I love to sing, hike, garden and craft,” she says. “On a sunny Saturday morning, you might find me at the farmers market or at Zumba. Sometimes I can be spotted at the random festivals and block parties we have in town…or even karaoke. I love anything that involves sharing music or dances with others.”
Her affinity for dance has been a constant source of joy, even when Gipson was attending college. “My love for dance is the reason I’m a member of Delta Phi Delta Dance Fraternity, Inc., Chi Chapter,” she says. “I love spending time outdoors; you can catch me lost in thought, staring at the bay or star gazing.”
Across the board, Gipson loves to try new experiences and see new things.
“I’m extremely close with everyone in my family, especially my mom and grandmother,” says Gipson, who is a middle child. “I’ve always had a strong matriarchal presence in my family, going back to my great grandmother. Because of them and the values they instilled in me, I’m a strong leader that leads with my heart.”
She describes her mother and grandmother as “powerful pillars” in their community who lead with love and kindness. “I’ve always aspired to be like them and hope I’m making them proud. Before I was even born, they spoke life and purpose into the woman I was going to become. The intentionality behind my name alone shows just how much they believed in me. Their love and their light is at the core of who I am and what motivates me to pour into those around me.”
Gipson adds that because her mother and grandmother instilled in her that everyone is family, she also surrounds herself with a lot of chosen family.
“I have some chosen family here in Bellingham whom I love dearly, especially my sweet little nephew,” she says. “I also love to spend quality time with my friends, colleagues, and fellow community members. Spending time with the people I love is where I am at my happiest.”
Future Endeavors
When it comes to the horizon, Gipson views it like she does most things in her life: with a wide-open heart.
“I have a plan for my future, but I’m also open to the unexpected,” she says. “Right now, I see myself getting my Ph.D. and J.D. in the next 5 to 7 years and on the road to becoming president of a university.”
As a young Black woman from the South Side of Chicago, becoming president of a university goes far beyond just seeing herself in a leadership position.
“It’s a way for me to break barriers and show the world that people who look like me belong in these positions. It will also be a way for me to uncover the challenges that exist and dismantle them to create more access for generations to come.”
When Gipson heard stories of how women in her family were trailblazers, she knew she wanted to continue that legacy.
“With that being said, if I decide to change career paths down the road, I see myself continuing social justice work; advocating for those who are marginalized and historically unrepresented, dismantling systems of oppression and engaging fully in whatever community I may find myself in,” she says. “The beautiful thing about the future is not knowing what’s to come but having faith that I will fulfill my purpose and make a positive impact on those around me.”
An event held at the Hotel Bellwether on Thursday, October 3rd from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. will celebrate all seven honorees and award the Young Professional of the Year. Click here for more details and to purchase tickets. Registration closes September 27, 2024.
