Ann Simmons receives the Dr. Jim McConnel Values Award

Ann Simmons, coordinator for Student Affairs Communications and Marketing, has demonstrated and been committed to all the values of Student Affairs at JMU. Through many changes, she has remained focused on our students. At a recent end of year celebration, many students specifically thanked her for the time spent mentoring, guiding, and coaching them to be their best. Simmons sees the potential in each student and encourages them along those paths, remaining dedicated to the mission of educating all students. She is unapologetically and unabashedly her real self, the model to being one’s authentic self. She leads courageously, advocates for student needs and is never afraid to speak up when she sees a need or injustice. She has transcended boundaries, working on a variety of campaigns, committees, RFPs and so much more. Having been referred to as “The Mayor of JMU” shows just how much she knows everyone on campus and how willing she is to share her knowledge and skills with others.  

Simmons creates belonging in her space, making people feel welcome, seeing people for who they are and supporting them. She promotes health and well-being, beyond her previous career as a nurse and health educator (and being the go-to person in the department when we need remedies or advice for whatever we may be experiencing). Through the years she has worked with multiple vaccine clinics, many health and well-being events, as well as guiding students who are creating graphics for countless health and well-being campaigns.  

Simmons has embraced innovation and change, most recently helping form our new department, which meant leaving her previous and familiar world in the University Health Center. She has consistently honored and valued all staff, finding the time to answer questions from student staff, other Student Affairs professionals or others outside our division. She constantly celebrates others’ achievements and life events and remembers little things about the people she meets, getting to know them as more than a colleague. Simmons has been a loyal Duke for many years and will be missed tremendously when she retires this year. Her impact will be felt for many years to come.