Mark Gibson, Chief Marketing and Branding Officer

Education

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Administration and Foundations (Ph.D.)
Illinois State University

Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Northwestern University

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Bradley University

Background

Dr. Mark Gibson was named the first ever Chief Marketing and Branding officer at Illinois Wesleyan University in August 2025. He leads the University Marketing Communications team developing strategies and marketing communications efforts at the institutional level, as well as marketing creative and brand support for Enrollment, Advancement, Academics, and other key university marketing initiatives. Additionally, in his role, he oversees institutional brand standards and guidelines, media relations and reputation management.

Previously, he spent over 35 years in marketing leadership roles, 25 years at State Farm, the last 15 as an executive in the Advertising, Marketing Communications, and Creative Services Department. At State Farm, Gibson oversaw the company's strategic branding, media planning, integrated marketing communications, and creative development functions.  He also helped negotiate the company's deals with the NCAA, NBA, MLB, NFL, NASCAR, and LPGA, over 100 colleges and universities, numerous personal services contracts with athletes and entertainers, and helped manage State Farm's roster of external agencies.