Empower Mississippi names Gibert new Chairman of the Board

Empower Mississippi has announced the election of Abb Payne as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. Payne will succeed Gerard Gibert, who has served in the role for the last 10 years. Gibert announced his decision to step down as Chairman at the March 18, 2024 Board meeting. He will remain on the Board. 

Under Gibert’s chairmanship, Empower Mississippi has grown from a tiny start-up to an influential and respected advocacy organization with 10 full-time staff and combined annual revenue of over $2.6 million between the Empower-associated entities. 

“Gerard Gibert’s leadership has been profound for our organization and for the state of Mississippi. His dedication to our work has helped bring about substantial progress in education reform, removing barriers to work, and public safety. I am deeply grateful for his service, his ongoing commitment to our work, and his friendship,” said Grant Callen, CEO of Empower Mississippi. “As we look to the future, we are thrilled to welcome Abb Payne as our new Chairman. Abb brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of our mission, a powerful entrepreneurial perspective, and a visionary outlook on Mississippi that will propel us to even greater impact.” 

Abb Payne expressed enthusiasm about his new role, saying, “I am proud to step into the role of Chairman of the Board for Empower Mississippi. It is my honor to lead Empower as we continue to make a huge impact on so many Mississippians.” 

Reflecting on his tenure, Gerard Gibert said, “It’s been an honor to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Empower Mississippi since the organization’s inception in 2014. While we’ve accomplished a great deal over the last decade, much work remains.”