Sidney A. Ribeau facts for kids

Sidney Ribeau is an American educator and leader. He was the president of two important universities: Bowling Green State University and Howard University. A university president is like the principal of a very big school, leading the whole campus.

Sidney Ribeau's Early Life and Learning

Sidney Ribeau was born in Detroit, Michigan, on December 3, 1947. He went to Mackenzie High School. After high school, he studied at Wayne State University, earning his first degree in 1971. He then continued his studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. There, he earned two more advanced degrees in communication.

Sidney Ribeau's Career Journey

Sidney Ribeau had a long and successful career in education. He started as a professor and later became a leader at several universities. He also served on important groups that help guide education and other organizations.

Teaching and Leadership Roles

In 1976, Ribeau began teaching communication studies. He taught at California State University, Los Angeles. He was known as an excellent teacher and advisor to students. In 1984, he became the head of the Pan African Studies Department.

Later, he moved to California State University, San Bernardino. There, he became the dean of undergraduate studies. From 1990 to 1992, he was a dean at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. After that, he became a vice president at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. He held this role until 1995.

Leading Bowling Green State University

The plaza in front of the Wolfe Center was named Ribeau Plaza after Sidney Ribeau

In 1995, Sidney Ribeau became the ninth president of Bowling Green State University (BGSU). He led the university for 13 years. During his time, BGSU started many new programs. One program helped professors work with outside groups. They worked together to solve important issues.

Another program, the President's Leadership Academy, began in 1997. The BGeXperience: Vision and Values program started in 2003. These programs helped students grow as leaders and learn important values.

In 2003, Ribeau received an award for his leadership. The National Association of Student Personnel Administrators honored him. They recognized his work in helping students learn and grow. Under his leadership, donations to BGSU also grew. Over $126 million was given to the university.

Leading Howard University

In May 2008, Ribeau was chosen as the 16th president of Howard University. He started his new role in August 2008. He took over from H. Patrick Swygert.

On October 1, 2013, President Ribeau announced he would retire. His retirement became effective at the end of December 2013.