Michael A. Gipson

I'm currently pursuing my doctorate in Educational Administration here at East Texas A&M University. I'm proud to be a first-generation college student, and my journey has been shaped by perseverance through a challenging upbringing. I was raised in a single-parent household, where my mother worked multiple jobs.

Professionally, I'm passionate about education and community service. I currently volunteer with several organizations that support underprivileged communities, and I also dedicate time to mentoring students in local elementary schools. My long-term goal is to become a full-time professor in higher education, contributing to the academic and personal growth of future educators.

Outside of academics and service, I'm deeply committed to giving back, whether through education, community outreach, or future scholarships. I'm excited to be on this doctoral journey and to learn alongside you all.

A conversation with Michael

What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending East Texas A&M?

Anyone considering attending East Texas A&M is not just enrolling in a university — they are being inducted into a family. With smaller class sizes and a close-knit campus, students benefit from a supportive environment where relationships thrive and every individual is more than just a number. Here, professors know your name, take an active interest in your success and become lifelong mentors. Your fellow students become family, creating bonds that last long after graduation. The collaborative, caring culture cultivates academic excellence, personal growth and meaningful connections.

What has been your favorite course?

One of the most impactful and unforgettable courses I've ever taken was a capstone class titled The Vietnam War: Music, Art, and Media. This course wasn't just about military strategies or political movements—it offered a deep, humanizing exploration of the Vietnam War through the lens of creativity and cultural expression. From the protest songs that defined a generation to the evocative war photography and poignant films that shaped public consciousness, every class illuminated a new dimension of the era. It challenged us to think critically about how art and media serve as both reflections and catalysts for social change. More than anything, it taught me how history lives on in the stories we tell—and the art we create.

Educational Experience

• Ed.D., Educational Administration, East Texas A&M University, in progress
• M.Ed., Educational Leadership, Texas A&M University-Commerce (now East Texas A&M University), 2009
• B.S., Sociology w/emphasis in Criminology, Texas A&M University-Commerce (now East Texas A&M University), 1998

Thesis

• From Rural to Urban: Exploring the Leadership Journeys of Black Male Principals.

Student Organizations

• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Current Job

• Assistant Superintendent