Gibson works in Salem and surrounding areas in many capacities for the Tri-County Society of Radiologic Technologists. She currently coordinates annual continuing education seminars for area technologists at Kent State University and is a speaker on many topics both locally and at the state level.

Gibson, whose involvement in radiologic technology spans three decades, says the award means a great deal to her because of her years of experience and because she was nominated by fellow technologists.

"This award is so prestigious because you are nominated and chosen by your peers," Gibson says. "This is why it's such an honor. Being chosen by the society means a great deal to me."

Gibson began her career at Trumbull Memorial Hospital in Warren, where she graduated from the school of radiologic technology in 1974. She worked as a staff technologist at Trumbull Memorial Hospital from 1974 to 1977. She was promoted to program director of the Trumbull Memorial Program in 1977 and continued in that capacity until 1995.

She then accepted the position of program director at Kent State Salem's radiologic technology program. Gibson currently serves as senior program director of the associate degree of radiologic technology and the Bachelor of Radiologic and Imaging Sciences Technology.

"Because of Jan's efforts, the Radiologic and Imaging Sciences Technology Program has grown over the years," says Dr. Jeffrey Nolte, Salem Campus dean. "Through the associate degree program and the bachelor's degree program, we give our students not only more education, but also more degree choices."

Gibson was instrumental in expanding Kent State's radiologic technology program at the Salem Campus. Kent State Salem is the only campus in the Kent State University system where students can earn a bachelor's degree in radiologic and imaging sciences. Students can earn an associate degree in radiologic technology and follow it with a bachelor's degree in one of five concentrations: computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, diagnostic medical sonography, nuclear medicine or radiation therapy.

In addition to her commitment to the Ohio Society of Radiologic Technology, Gibson is a member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and served as an Ohio affiliate delegate from 2003 to 2005. She is also a member of the Association of Educators in Imaging and Radiologic Sciences and has served on various committees.

She received an associate degree in general studies from Kent State University in 1978 and a Bachelor of Science in technical education from the University of Akron in 1981. She completed a Master of Education in health education and promotion in 2001 at Kent State University.

Gibson gives willingly and tirelessly to her program, students and professional organizations. She has been a model to professional commitment. When asked, Gibson says her greatest reward is the success of her students.