Chris Gibson

Christopher Patrick Gibson, born in 1964, is an American figure with a diverse career spanning military service, politics, academia, and college administration. A Republican, he served in the U.S. House of Representatives for New York's 20th and 19th congressional districts from 2011 to 2017. Prior to his political career, Gibson had a distinguished military service, retiring as a colonel after tours in the Gulf War, Kosovo, and Iraq, earning numerous awards including a Purple Heart and four Bronze Stars. He also holds a Ph.D. in government from Cornell University.

Following his time in Congress, Gibson transitioned to academia, serving as a distinguished visiting professor at Williams College. He then became the 12th president of Siena College, his alma mater, where he led the institution through a period of growth and national recognition. In 2025, he published his third book, "The Spirit of Philadelphia: A Call to Recover the Founding Principles."

Born in 1964, Christopher Patrick Gibson began his career by joining the United States Army in 1986 after graduating from Siena College. He rose to the rank of colonel, serving multiple tours including combat deployments in Iraq and Kosovo, as well as humanitarian efforts in Haiti. His military service earned him significant recognition, including a Purple Heart and four Bronze Stars, among other commendations. Gibson furthered his education by obtaining a Ph.D. in government from Cornell University. He also lectured on American politics at West Point and was a national security fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution.

Gibson entered politics as a Republican, representing New York's 20th and later 19th congressional districts in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2017. He was known for his focus on local issues, including expanding broadband access and addressing Lyme disease. Gibson also supported repealing the Affordable Care Act and was a member of both conservative and moderate Republican groups. A proponent of term limits, he announced in 2015 that he would not seek re-election in 2016. He later served as the President-Elect and then President of Siena College from 2020 to 2023.

In addition to his public service, Chris Gibson is an author. His first book, "Securing the State" (2008), explored his perspectives on national security decision-making. More recently, in May 2025, he published "The Spirit of Philadelphia: A Call to Recover the Founding Principles," which reflects his current work as a writer and analyst focused on foundational American ideas. Gibson's writings draw from his extensive experience in military affairs, government, and higher education.