Erma Bernard-Gibson was appointed to serve on the Commission on the Status of Women by Mayor Eric Garcetti in 2013. Her personal task is to improve the welfare of women in the Los Angeles community and to promote their full and equal participation in the affairs of Los Angeles City government. As a Commissioner, she looks forward to advising the Mayor’s Office and the City Council on the needs and challenges faced by women in the City of Los Angeles. As a part of her community advocacy, she recommends programs that offer women greater opportunity. She continues to be active in community groups concerned with the identifying and removal of obstacles that inhibit the development of a woman’s full potential. She is a vocal supporter of AARP and the seniors it represents.
Mrs. Bernard-Gibson has been a member of the Los Angeles Drifters since 1999. They are an organization with 33 Chapters nationwide and over 700 members who advocate for the advancement of women, senior citizens and young girls. She has served as the Chapter President, Vice President, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, and National Parliamentarian. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and Marketing. She retired from the Shell Oil Company after 25 years of service as a Distribution Coordinator. Following retirement, Mrs. Bernard-Gibson worked part-time as an Administrative Analyst for United Methodist Ministries and is currently a Notary Public. She sits on the Board of Good Shepherd Housing for Seniors. She served as the Vice President of AARP Chapter 5117 and is a member of their Executive Board.
Erma Bernard-Gibson was a member of the Political Action Committee for First African Methodist Episcopal church (FAME). She has volunteered at Cedar Sinai hospital for more than eighteen years; and she has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused children. Commissioner Bernard-Gibson has two adult children and five wonderful grandchildren.