BCC’s “Lunch with Leaders” series is an informal opportunity for students to gather, listen and participate in a free-ranging discussion presented by successful individuals in their fields. On Tuesday, October 23, the latest leader to come to our campus was New York City Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson. Representing the Bronx’s 16th Council District, she advocates for affordable housing, low-income families, seniors, job creation, school safety, criminal justice reform and anti-gun violence programs. During the 2014-2017 session, Gibson was the first woman and first person of color to serve as Chair of the Council’s Committee on Public Safety.

Ringed by some three dozen students and the weighty tomes of the Thurgood Marshall Law Collection in North Hall and Library, Council Member Gibson was introduced by BCC President Thomas A. Isekenegbe and then fielded questions for the better part of two hours on every topic from the criminal justice system to jobs to homelessness to the challenges facing women in politics.

When asked to describe the qualities of a successful leader, the Council Member answered “Someone who’s humble — who recognizes that it is a privilege to be in this position. Who does more listening than talking. You have to educate yourself. And you cannot do this work alone. You have to build bridges that bring communities together.”

The event was presented by The Student Leadership Institute and Womxn UP. And yes, lunch was served.