Antoine Garibaldi facts for kids

Antoine Michael Garibaldi is an important leader in education. He has been the president of two different universities. He was the 25th president of the University of Detroit Mercy in Detroit, Michigan. He was also the first African-American president of any Jesuit university. Today, he is president emeritus and a distinguished university professor at the University of Detroit Mercy.

Early Life and Education

Antoine Garibaldi grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. He went to St. Joan of Arc Grammar School. He also attended St. Augustine High School. In 1964, he joined the seminary with the Josephites. This was at Epiphany Apostolic College in Newburgh, New York.

After leaving the seminary, he went to Howard University. He earned a bachelor's degree in sociology in 1973. He then continued his studies at the University of Minnesota. In 1976, he received his PhD in Educational Psychology. He was one of the first African Americans to achieve this.

Career Highlights

Garibaldi started his career as an elementary school teacher. He taught in Washington, D.C.. Later, he became a principal in Minnesota. He led the St. Paul Urban League Street Academy.

Leadership at Xavier University

From 1982 to 1996, Garibaldi worked at Xavier University of Louisiana. He was a professor and chairman of the Education Department. He also served as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. He became the first non-religious vice president for academic affairs there.

Roles at Howard and Gannon

In 1996, Garibaldi was chosen for a big role at Howard University. He became the first Provost and Chief Academic Officer. This position helps lead all academic programs. From 2001 to 2010, he served as the 6th president of Gannon University. This university is located in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Leading University of Detroit Mercy

In June 2011, Garibaldi became the 25th president of the University of Detroit Mercy. He was the first African-American president for this school. He was also the first openly African-American president of any Jesuit university. He announced in August 2021 that he would step down. He transitioned to president emeritus in July 2022.

Personal Life

Antoine Garibaldi is a Catholic. He once studied to become a priest with the Josephites.