Simmons, stepped into the role after the retirement of longtime Dean Cynthia Hughes-Harris, Ph.D. Throughout her career at FAMU, Simmons has secured more than $4.5 million in funding for programs, research, and student advancement.
As dean, Simmons will provide leadership for the schools' five divisions ---Cardiopulmonary Science, Health Care Management, Health Informatics, and Information Management, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. She will be responsible for providing a cohesive vision to advance the school and will work to initiate and sustain relationships with external partners in health care.
“I am eager to embark on a journey of innovation, collaboration, and excellence as the newly appointed dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences,” Simmons said. “I look forward to empowering our faculty and staff as we advance student success in the areas of experiential learning, licensure pass rates, and employment security upon degree completion.
Simmons is a two-time alumna of FAMU with a bachelor’s degree in cardiopulmonary science and a master’s degree in public health with a concentration in environmental and occupational health. She received her doctorate in public health with a specialty in community health from Walden University.