Uncrowned Community Builders

Gloria Simpson was born in Buffalo, New York and was the first of three daughters born to Joel and Carrie Mattison. She is married to Robert Simpson and the couple has three children, Barrett, Brendan, and RaShawn, as well as seven grandchildren. Gloria holds an Associateââ?¬â?¢s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Empire State College and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Medaille College.

Gloria works for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) as an operations manager for Special Services. She manages the Metrolink division and handles the eligibility criteria for the disabled community for transportation services. She has worked at NFTA for 26 years. She began her career as a part-time information specialist in 1977 and later became a full-time clerk in the service planning department. In 1984, she was appointed to the job of rail controller and in 1989 became the first female to hold the position of district manager of the NFTA. In 1992, Gloria was the recipient of the Black Achievers award.

Gloria is a member of the Linwood Church of Christ. She has taught Sunday school and is presently a substitute teacher for the tenth grade. She is also the fundraising coordinator for Southwestern Christian College, a private college in Terrell, Texas supported by Churches of Christ. She is a past member of the board of directors for the Girl Scouts, an assistant troop leader, and an active member of the Supervisory Studies Committee for Cornell University-School of Management.

Gloria's contribution to Western New York is her millinery business. She is the proud owner of Flashy Toppers Boutique, a millinery shop which offers hats and accessories for men and women. When Flashy Toppers Boutique was established there was only one known hat shop in the Buffalo area. Gloria's love for God, her life experiences, and professionalism have allowed her to stay in business for ten years, despite the problems associated with minority businesses.

Gloria and her husband Robert continue to operate Flashy Toppers Boutique because she wants a place for women not only to come for their hat needs, but for uplifting and encouragement also. She feels that if we, as a people, would band together, there would be no stopping us in realizing the strengths and talents that we possess.