LONDON and GUELPH, Ontario–Libro Credit Union and the University of Guelph reported that Dr. Ryan Gibson has been named as the Libro Professor of Regional Economic Development for southwestern Ontario.
The professorship is a partnership between Libro and the university's Ontario Agricultural College, which is on building economic development and innovation across the region “through world-class research, teaching, outreach and collaboration.”
"We are absolutely thrilled to partner with the University of Guelph and are very excited to have Ryan as part of the Libro family," said Stephen Bolton, Libro Credit Union president, CEO and “head coach.” "Libro exists to grow prosperity in southwestern Ontario by transforming banking, and the professorship will help us to discover the opportunities for future economic development. It's a tremendous chance to leverage the strengths of this region and enhance the place more than two million of us call home."
Gibson joins the University of Guelph from St. Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He'll be working through the Ontario Agricultural College's School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, according to a statement from the two organizations.
"The opportunity created through this innovation position is truly exciting," said Ryan Gibson, Libro professor of regional economic development for southwestern Ontario. "I am looking forward to working with communities, indigenous groups, and others interested in enhancing the prosperity of southwestern Ontario."
Gibson's research examines key issues related to the future of rural communities and regions, and topics such as governance, public policy, immigration and revitalization. He is also president of the Canadian Community Economic Development Network, a national organization committed to strengthening communities by creating economic opportunities that enhance social and environmental conditions.
The $3.8-billion Libro has committed to endow the professorship with $500,000 over 10 years, which will be matched to existing donations, for a combined gift of $1 million.