Meredith Gibson

Media/GIS Director

“I love that I can use my skills in writing and mapping to improve the health and safety of my community.”

Meredith Gibson is the Media/GIS director at the Institute for Public Strategies (IPS) in San Diego, CA. She uses geographic information systems (GIS) and media advocacy to promote community health. Considered a thought leader in using geospatial technology to advance public health and healthcare, Meredith leads IPS’ own GIS strategy as well as the establishment of a policy mapping lab to provide TA and training in applied GIS to like-minded organizations. She believes that geospatial technology can be used to address the notion that “Place Matters,” and work toward reducing health disparities based on geography or demographics.

Meredith is a member of the Fullbright Specialist roster, a program that will allow her to bring GIS expertise to host institutions abroad. She is an adjunct professor at Hudson County Community College, Division of Nursing and Health Sciences in Jersey City, NJ. She is also a member of URISA’s Community Resilience workgroup.

Meredith is the editor of IPS’ nationally-distributed quarterly newsletter, PICture This. Additionally, she has amassed news coverage at the local and national levels. In 2018, she launched the SpeakWell program at IPS, a series of training workshops that give residents tools on how to advocate for their communities through media advocacy.

As a featured contributor for GovLoop, an online platform that curates resources to promote innovation and problem-solving in government, Meredith shared her insights about GIS and media advocacy. She presents at conferences such as the GeoGov Summit, American Public Health Association, Alcohol Policy-19, and the National Prevention Network. Meredith enjoys biking, paddleboarding, rowing with the Annapolis Rowing Club, and cheering on the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Chargers with her family.