University Awards: Jean Dickinson Gibbons Fielden '62

Jean Dickinson Gibbon's passion for learning was apparent in her early life and continued throughout her career. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in mathematics from Duke University, before going on to earn her doctorate in statistics from Virginia Tech. Her academic record is exceptional given that common societal expectations during the 1950s and early 60s were that women should not study math and science. Her dedication to learning and conducting research on statistical methods during this era continues to inspire many women who are dedicated to pursuing education and research in the field of statistics. I'm Annie Booth. I'm now an assistant professor in statistics here at Virginia Tech. But back when I was a graduate student, I was the first recipient of the Jean Gibbons Fellowship. It was a huge deciding factor in my choice to actually come to Virginia Tech. The fellowship was a big financial support, obviously, but it was also a huge emotional support. It was telling me that, you know, this department and Jean and everyone involved was really invested in my success. They really wanted me to come and do my studies here. They wanted me to be successful. And knowing that as a young graduate student starting something new, it can be really intimidating. But knowing that you had people like Jean who had your back was really invaluable. Dr. Jean Dickinson Gibbons Fielden is a pioneering statistician and one of Virginia Tech's most distinguished alumni. As just the second woman to earn a doctorate in statistics from Virginia Tech, she helped pave the way for generations to follow. A leading authority in nonparametric statistics, her research transformed how we analyze complex data across science, policy, and industry. Her work remains foundational to the field today. Beyond her scholarship, she has been a dedicated leader, mentor, and advocate for women in statistics. Dr. Gibbons’ contributions to nonparametric statistical methods and theory led to her global recognition as an expert in nonparametric statistics. Her engaging teaching and novel research findings resulted in her being elected as a fellow of the American Statistical Association in 1972 at age 34, making her one of the youngest women ever to receive that honor. She was also the first chair of the Committee on Women in Statistics from 1972 to 1974. Her career is a reminder that rigorous and focused scholarship can leave a lasting mark on an entire discipline. The department here at Virginia Tech is really special. We have this really strong sense of community that is in a huge, large part due to our alumni network and people like Jean, who are continuing to pour back into the department, pour back into our students and stay connected. It really feels like you are part of something big and these long legacies, and Jean is definitely the leader when it comes to supporting, especially this new young generation of statisticians like myself. And I'm very lucky to be a part of it.