CARBONDALE — When Ashley B. Gibson, a 2009 graduate of Southern Illinois University’s College of Business and Analytics, first stepped onto campus, she had no idea how the experience would shape her career and inspire her to give back.
A seasoned leader with over 15 years of consulting experience, author, and public speaker, now she is making a lasting impact on the next generation of women in accounting through the Ashley B. Gibson Accounting Excellence Scholarship Fund.
Gibson, 37, grew up in Carterville and chose SIU for its strong academic reputation and proximity to home. At the time, her father was working overseas in Iraq, and staying close to her mother was a priority. While earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accountancy, Gibson found mentorship in Dr. Marcus Odom and was deeply involved in student organizations. Her leadership in the Accounting Society and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) opened doors to scholarships and national recognition, ultimately paving the way for her service on IMA’s Global Board of Directors.
“I remember when I received IMA’s highest scholarship. I was standing in Rehn Hall when I got the call,” Gibson said. “After I hung up, I slid down the wall, crying tears of joy and relief. It was the first external scholarship I had received, and it validated that people believed in me.”
During her time at SIU, Gibson was recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Accounting, Outstanding Senior in the College of Business, and one of the Top 25 Most Distinguished Seniors—an achievement she likens to winning the Triple Crown in terms of involvement at SIU.
“It was recognition that I’ll forever remember and reminded me of what all I accomplished during my time at SIU,” she said. “Those honors were not just a celebration of my hard work—they also highlighted the importance of having a strong support system and access to opportunities.”
Despite her professional success and accounting acumen, Gibson has dealt with challenges that many women face in the workplace, especially in leadership.
“When women, especially leaders in their field, are asked to perform remedial tasks such as getting coffee or taking notes, it’s because those asking don’t understand the implications it has,” she said. “While there are seats for women at the table, it’s sometimes a silent one, and I want to help change that.”
Her decision to establish the Ashley B. Gibson Accounting Excellence Scholarship Fund is rooted in a commitment to empowering women from Southern Illinois. With an initial pledge of $10,000, she aims to provide financial support and mentorship opportunities for aspiring female accountants.
“I always knew I wanted to create a scholarship for the School of Accountancy. I just wasn’t sure how or if I had enough to start one,” Gibson said. “Then I realized, why wait? Life is too short. I want to meet the recipients, follow their careers, and see the impact firsthand.”
For Gibson, giving back isn’t just about financial support—it’s about fostering a culture where women feel valued and encouraged to lead. She hopes her scholarship will inspire others to invest in SIU’s future and support the next generation of female accountants.
“The earlier I invest in future professionals, the greater the impact,” she said. “We need to break the stigma that philanthropy is something you do later in life. If you want to give back, start now.”
Gibson encourages other young alumni to consider how they can contribute, no matter their stage in life or career.
“If not now, when?” she said. “The SIU Foundation makes it easy to start the conversation. Just ask.”
Through her scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy, Gibson is determined to create lasting opportunities for women in accountancy. As she continues to rise in her own career, she remains committed to lifting others along the way.
“I hope this scholarship ignites a fire in other women to succeed,” she said. “This is my own version of the Butterfly Effect—one action leading to another, shaping the future for the women who follow.”