William Gibson

William began as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer for Helps Education Fund in September 2022. He brings more than 25 years of private and nonprofit executive leadership experience and a passion for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. He is a leader of innovation strategies, social entrepreneurship, and community-based organization collaboration.

He came to Helps Education Fund after having served as the chief strategy officer and managing partner for Seattle-based Sustineri Group, Inc., a consulting firm that focuses on positive social change through social entrepreneurship and innovation. Prior to that, as an executive director, he led a diverse team in the Northwest for nearly eight years in social innovation and social impact work connected to The United Methodist Church. His efforts helped develop, fund, and support projects and programs in Alaska, Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and small parts of Canada, ranging from social enterprise, community and economic development, and affordable housing, to financial and programmatic support of local school districts serving economically marginalized communities. William is an experienced entrepreneur and has led and collaborated in several new startups. He is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

William completed his doctorate (D.Min.) at George Fox University focusing on semiotics/future studies, with an emphasis on social and technological advancement. He completed his master’s (M.Div.) at Duke University with a focus on social entrepreneurship. He has also completed a certification in entrepreneurship and innovation at Harvard Business School (Online). Gibson is the author of a new book, Sustainable Engagement: Strategic Planning for Positive Social Change.