Dr. Sheila Simmons received her BS degree from Fisk University and received her Masters and Ph.D. From the University of Oregon. After spending a short time teaching in Dallas, Fall 1968 Simmons accepted a position as University Administrator at the University of Oregon, Eugene, OR and became the first Black female faculty member and the youngest faculty member in 1968. Over the next few years, Simmons worked in OR at the University in several capacities and returned to Dallas in 1981 after receiving her Ph.D. and worked in the Dallas Independent School District, Department of Research, Evaluation, and Accountability.
In 1985, Simmons relocated to Washington, DC and started a 35 year career with the NATIONAL EDUCATION ASSOCIATION (NEA) where she held many positions. The positions include Director of Human and Civil Rights, Policy Analyst, Organization Development Specialist, Campaign Director, and Executive Staff Director. Simmons represented NEA at the national and international in the areas of politics and education, organizational development, negotiating and organizing around education issues, policy development, and promoting social justice issues. Over the years with NEA, Simmons traveled and/or worked in every state in the US, and worked in the Caribbean, Canada, Africa, and Europe. As Director of Human and Civil Rights, Simmons developed and conducted human and civil rights training with emphasis on equity/diversity/inclusion and provided expertise in leadership coaching and training; lead organizational development in social justice issues, and effectively implemented a strategic plan and communication strategies that supported social justice, human and civil rights in a large multifaceted organization with 3.2 millions. Her specialized skills include equity, diversity, and inclusion issues; training development and delivery; message development, delivery, and discipline; community and public engagement; organizing and advocacy focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion issues.
Simmons retired 2012 and relocated to Tampa, Florida and continued her social justice work. Simmons’ focus on social justice work has centered on working with diverse congregations and communities for justice, fairness, and dignity. This work includes to engage community members in relationship building, identifying and successfully tackling common community problems. Most recently as a member of HOPE (Hillsborough Organization for Progress and Equality) Simmons advocated for affordable housing in Hillsborough County and due to the persistence of HOPE, organizational efforts and people power with congregations, a Hillsborough County Ordinance was established a local Affordable Housing Fund of at least 10 million annually. Currently, Simmons serves on the HOPE Board, Executive Committee, and newly appointed Co-President of HOPE.
Since retirement, Simmons has continued her travels for adventure, continuing education, and cultural exchange. Since 2012, she has visited China, climbed the Great Wall, Laos, Thailand, Hong Gong, Dubai, India, and visited the Taj Mahal, Spain, France, Mexico, Egypt, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia. Just one more continent to go!!!