Buddy Gibson devoted 34 years to the Oakesdale School District, serving as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and principal. He played a pivotal role in shaping high school athletics in Washington, serving on the WIAA Executive Board from 1979 to 1994, including terms as vice president (1986-87) and president (1987-88). He directed the Southwest ‘B’ Boys Basketball Tournament for 20 years and was assistant director of the “B” Girls State Basketball Championships for four years.

In 1976, Gibson became the Title IX Coordinator for the Oakesdale School District, ensuring that female athletes had not only the opportunity to compete but the support to excel. His dedication to gender equity set a lasting standard in Whitman County.

Gibson’s contributions were recognized with his induction into the Washington Secondary School Athletic Administrators Association (WSSAAA) Hall of Fame in 1994 and the WIAA Gareth Giles Memorial Award in 1996 for distinguished service to the youth of Washington.