September 2020

September 2020
Angela Ellis Gibbs

(BBA, Management, ’00)

Q & A:

• What was your favorite class, who was your favorite professor, or what is your fondest memory of Hofstra?
  My fondest memory was being the recipient of the New Opportunities At Hofstra (NOAH) scholarship. It was within this program that I gained a support system and knowledge that prepared me for my time at Hofstra. I will never forget my experience with this program or the people I met during my college journey.
• What was your first job after graduating from Hofstra, and what was the most valuable thing learned in that position?
  My first job was as a human resource assistant for BNY ESI Securities – now BNY Convergex. Within one year, I was presented with the opportunity to take on a position as a client service manager for the Soft Dollars Department. It was at this firm that I met and worked alongside the most dynamic managers, leaders, and colleagues in my career. The most valuable lesson I learned was to always be open to growth, both personally and professionally.
• What is your field of specialty, and how did you come to work in the industry?
  I am proud to say that I am a licensed tattoo artist who specializes in scar camouflage and natural aesthetics. I have always been artistic and knew eventually I would have a business focused on beauty. While studying aesthetics, I was fortunate to meet a colleague who connected me to a well-known artist named April Meese of Enhancing Beauty. April became my mentor/trainer and I apprenticed under her for several months in New York City.
• What advice would you give Hofstra students?
  I would advise them to never place limits on what they can do or achieve in their life. With every experience, I have learned so much about myself. This clarity allowed me to challenge my abilities and eventually set me on a path where I am fulfilling my aspirations.
• In one word, how would you describe Hofstra?
  Memorable.
• After years of working in the finance industry, what led to the creation of CÖSBEAU INK?
  I experienced the loss of my maternal aunts and uncle to cancer. These individuals were so instrumental to my development, encouraging and supporting me throughout my academic and professional life. It was during this time that I found myself becoming more creative with a heightened interest in starting a business. As of 2013, I started to design a plan for a business that would memorialize my loved ones and grant me the ability to do what I love. Three years later (2016), I was able to make my dream a reality.
• What is your favorite part of your job
  My favorite part of my job is transforming my clients with my art. I truly love what I do and enjoy being able to see the direct impact of my artistry on my clients
• Who was the person who most influenced you, and how?
  My mother, Linette, is my greatest inspiration. As a mother of six, she has shown me that there are no limits to what I am able to achieve with my life. Even after the loss of my father and her siblings, she earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree, all while working full time. She is a multipassionate entrepreneur who encourages me to pursue my dreams and be the very best version of myself.
• What is the single most rewarding/exciting experience in your career thus far?
  While I am continuously humbled by my journey so far, the single most rewarding experience has been the clients that I serve! They are so strong and powerful, and are my inspiration.